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teachers

Kevin Jenness

Kevin Jenness

Joined
Nov 15, 2020
Messages
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Location
Huntington, VT
Melissa Engler and Graeme Priddle are teaching a course in Enhancing the Turned Surface in Maine this fall. Center for Furniture Craftsmanship Any feedback on how they are as teachers? I am interested in the technical side of course, but at least equally interested in their general approach to encouraging creativity and new approaches to sculpture. I have seen encomiums to various teachers such as Trent Bosch, Steve Loar and David Ellsworth regarding that side of teaching. This course wouldn't require a long journey for me. but I would consider travelling farther for inspiring instruction on the subject.
 
I agree with Russ, they are great! They each have a wealth of information to share and do it in a style that is easily digestible. My first “real” workshop was with them. I’ve now taken it twice (not just for the learning, but also to help support two awesome people), and my wife took it when they were here in May. I highly recommend it!
 
Kevin Jenness said:
Melissa Engler and Graeme Priddle are teaching a course in Enhancing the Turned Surface in Maine this fall. Center for Furniture Craftsmanship Any feedback on how they are as teachers? I am interested in the technical side of course, but at least equally interested in their general approach to encouraging creativity and new approaches to sculpture. I have seen encomiums to various teachers such as Trent Bosch, Steve Loar and David Ellsworth regarding that side of teaching. This course wouldn't require a long journey for me. but I would consider travelling farther for inspiring instruction on the subject.
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They are among the the very best teachers I've taken woodturning classes with -- perhaps the best -- a weeklong class at the John Campbell Folk School after seeing them demo for a day for the Ohio Valley Woodturners Guild. They demonstrate a wide range of techniques and encourage students to experiment -- very supportive and aid students in pursuing particular interests. Lots of technical demo and advice. Also important -- especially in a multiday class -- they are some of the nicest people I've ever taken classes with. The classroom is a happy place.
 
Not only excellent teachers, but warm and good-natured and smart and overflowing with both artistic creativity and practical wisdom!
IMHO.
I've had the pleasure of attending several demos and visited in Asheville.

If you happen to have a nice block of pure white Holly with no knots or defects, maybe take it for a welcoming gift!

JKJ
 
I agree with the above. Some expert demonstrator/teachers have one thing they're known for, but Melissa and Graham will not just teach you multiple techniques, they'll have you thinking differently about what you're doing, and you'll come away braver than ever.
 
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