Very well said John. I am in complete agreement.
,,,,,,,, the move toward professional woodturning art forms and groups, while appreciated, has left the masses in the dust, with very little consideration, IMHO.
I would like to know how this conclusion can be drawn? Where is the evidence?
For those that actively participate in the AAW, its chapters, and at regional events, essentially EVERY organized activity that I know of is, as John states,
INCLUSIVE, and in the selection of topics being presented as demonstrations, and in specialized activities like the "Learn To Turn" events, prospective woodturners are encouraged to "give it a try". At the "Youth Turning" symposium activity each year, this event teaches dozens of youth how to turn and then sends 25 lucky smiling youthful winners home with a mini lathe and a complete set of accessories. A simple perusal of the titles of the demonstrations held at the San Jose Symposium this year shows that at least HALF of the topics presented are done at the beginning or intermediate level, and are chosen specifically to allow attendees the opportunity to see a range of demonstrations to build understanding and woodturning skills in ALL who choose to take advantage of these events. I am a member of the Symposium Committee and I can tell you that the committee goes through great pains to assure a program that is presented to the attendees that spans the full range of skill levels of those participating in the symposium.
The AAW also generates thousands of dollars each year for the Educational Opportunity Grant Program, which are are given to applicants - ANY applicants - that demonstrate their desire to advance their individual skills and understanding of woodturning, or to chapters and other groups to advance woodturning with specific activities. This does not sound like 'catering to the professionals' or "very little consideration" to me...
I am also a member of the newly created Woodturning FUNdamentals Committee, and with other members of the committee, have been producing an on-line series of articles directed SPECIFICALLY at the beginner and intermediate turner. Within the first few months, we already have over 2,000 subscribers who are members of the AAW, and anticipate gaining more users of this resource over time as they become more aware if its content and intent.
It is an unfair and inaccurate characterization that the AAW intentionally is leaving ANY of its members "in the dust". It is certainly not in the interest of the organization to do so, and for those that are active and aware of what actually goes on at AAW events, it is clear that demonstrations are chosen to allow turners of all skill levels (amateur, "professional", or hobbiest) to come away with a learning experience.
If anyone feels like they are being "left in the dust", it is because of their own choice, and NOT because the AAW is "moving toward professional art forms", or not providing learning experience possibilities for all of its members. It is, in fact, working toward BROADER participation from everyone. If you choose not to participate, I hope you enjoy the dust!
It is simply
NOT TRUE that the AAW is an organization that caters "to the professionals".......please, let's drop this myth, and move on to keep the art, craft, and science of woodturning moving forward for everyone!
Rob Wallace