This display of one-of-a-kind, exceptional art pieces features the work of Richard Henley (furniture), Johan Nell (bespoke boxes), Wally Rossinni (furniture/bowls), Dave Stephenson (bowls), Mike Stripp (sculpture), Rob Prange (furniture), Div de Villiers (furniture), Guy Thesen (sculpture), Nick and Tim Bullen (furniture) and Timber Village (wood crafts).
What may seem like an abandoned trunk or wind-blown tree to some has been transformed into breathtaking art pieces such as totem poles, tables, chairs, sculptures and much more by these highly talented artists.
On his profile, one of the artists, Henry Nel writes, "My work aims to address a function, while enriching people's lives and to make intelligent and lasting use of a very special material, that we may have beauty in common things again." Div de Villiers describes himself as "an artisan who strives to find the ideal use for each plank of wood in order to create an object of utility, and, if nature smiles, an object lasting beauty."
Each artist's work displays perfectly his own way of bringing to life the beauty of wood in masterful and often breathtaking ways.
To add a finishing touch to the exhibition, photographic art by husband and wife, Raquel de Castro Maia and Colin Stephenson adorn the walls. De Castro Maia's collection, entitled Ephemeral, captures the delicate beauty of orchids and their fast vanishing natural environment.
The photos were taken in the Outeniqua Mountains over a period of five years. Stephenson's In Pursuit of Eden "sets out to explore the role contemporary landscape photography can play in creating social awareness about the importance of conservation of wilderness areas". These images were captured in the Eden District.
The Wood Art Exhibition forms part of the inaugural Knysna Woodworkers Festival and will run until October 28 at the Knysna Art Gallery.
A beautifully crafted Wild Olive and Candlewood table and Stinkwood bowl by Richard Henley. (Photo: Elle Photography.)
