No Respect

A very misinformed couple was browsing an artist’s table at a local craft fair and commented, “It is just something he made himself in his little workshop at home on one of those turnney things. I can’t believe he wants that much money for a little wooden bowl or vase or whatever it is.”

We can’t hold someone responsible for not appreciating the value of something we created if they don’t understand what they are looking at. In this day of modern technology we can pretty much create anything we want physically with the aid of machines proper materials and enough man hours to design and test it. Consider this piece made by my friend Michael Gibson entitled “Around Autumn”:

Photo

Consider what it took to produce this piece of art

1) Six inch sphere – close to a perfect sphere out of solid pear wood

2) Hollowed to 3/32” – that is less than 1/8”!!! Through an opening of less than 1”

3) Sanded completely smooth inside through that small opening

4) Maple leaves which are connected by very delicate threads are left behind after texturing, piercing and carving

5) The very skillful application of an autumn color pallet and top coat of finish

6) All of the handling during its creation without breaking something almost as delicate as an eggshell

7) Knowing Michael, he has at least a full week of labor in this piece and could have more time than that

8) Yes, he made it himself in a backyard workshop (studio) in Georgia.

As a very experienced woodturner myself, I know I don’t have the patience or the skill to do this. Someone walking by at a craft fair, even a high class event, probably wouldn’t have a clue as to what it took to produce “Around Autumn”. That is the same reason we so often get no respect. I would encourage you to remember that when someone insults one of your pieces. Either help them appreciate what it really took through a friendly conversation or smile and wish them well and wait for the customer who does appreciate your efforts. Because the truth is wherever you go, there you are.

You may view this and many other beautiful pieces by Michael HERE

(http://www.michaelgibsonwoodturner.com/) If you are interested in purchasing any of the items you see, contact Michael. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 770–294–3135. Michael is also available for demonstrations and classes.

Here is my inspiration for this message:

Prov 14:6–7 Good News Translation

Conceited people can never become wise, but intelligent people learn easily. Stay away from foolish people; they have nothing to teach you.

Exodus 35:10 New International Ver

“All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the LORD has commanded.

Mark 8:18 NIV

Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember?