Friends of the Public Garden – Online Art Auction
Auction Ends: Oct 21, 2015 08:00 PM EDT

Elm Tree Art

Elm Tree Cookie #1

Item Number
114
Sold
550 USD to jh01ce032
Number of Bids
20  -  Bid History

Item Description

A slice of a Boston Common English elm tree. Size: 38.5" x 35" ; 2.25" thick. This cookie has been planed and varnished on one side.  Note: This item closes for bidding on Wednesday, October 14th at 8:00pm! 

A note from the artist, Myer Berlow:

I turned to woodturning 10 years ago as I embarked on my second year of retirement. I found myself with time on my hands and in need of something to quiet my mind. I figured that an enterprise for which I had no natural talent not to mention an enterprise that carried the risk of serious injury was the ideal endeavor. 

I had imagined I would find my voice but I learned that clearing one’s throat is a most satisfying experience.

During the past decade I have come to an understanding of the importance of craft and real reverence for materials.  Few societies truly value their trees and because objects made from them seldom survive long enough to attain the status of objects made of stone or clay we tend to see wood as a disposable material. 

To be able to work with the wood from a tree which survived more than a century and was kept alive against all odds is an honor. The Elm trees which were planted by the thousands in every city in the country after we had cut down every old growth tree on the continent are for the most part only a memory. This tree and the others like it were preserved by people who cared for them.

I thank them all for the trees and for the opportunity.

 

Item Special Note

This item is heavy and can be picked up at the Friends office at 69 Beacon Street.

Donated By:

Myer Berlow