Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea
Richard Adams to Demonstrate Woodturning on the Lathe at Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea

On Saturday, Sept. 1, Richard Adams, of London, will demonstrate woodturning on the lathe from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea.

Artistic and utilitarian bowls are Adams’ primary work, but he also enjoys turning hollow forms, lidded boxes, pepper and salt mills, pens and trivets. He recently served as master artist in residency at the Appalachian Artisan Center in Hindman.

Born on Cutshin Creek in southeastern Kentucky, Adams has always been fascinated with wood. Whether it was climbing trees in the mountains, gathering firewood or working alongside his dad in the woodshop, he enjoyed the textures, colors and uniqueness of wood.

When introduced to the wood lathe, Adams’ interest in wood grew exponentially. (A lathe is a mechanical tool that holds and rotates a piece of wood so that various tools can carve and shape the spinning wood.) Adams was delighted by the shavings that flew off the tools and into the air, captivated by the variety of shapes that quickly emerged, and astonished by the treasures that could be found within a log.

Works by Adams are regularly available at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, located at
200 Artisan Way, just off Interstate 75 at Berea exit 77. The center’s exhibits, shopping and travel information areas are open daily, year-round, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the cafe is open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is free.

The center currently features works by more than 650 artisans from 100 counties across the Commonwealth. A special exhibit titled, “The Threads that Bind: Textile Works by Kentucky Artisans,” will be on display through Feb. 23, 2013. For more information about the center’s programming, call 859-985-5448 or visit the center’s website www.kentuckyartisancenter.ky.gov

The Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea is an agency in the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.