Busy Squirrel Turned Wood
Artist Matt Bakke’s exhibit of turned wood creations is on display in the Evansville Art Center Gallery through October 28th.
Early Start, Lifelong Passion
Matt Bakke allows the natural beauty of the wood he uses to show through in each turned wooden treasure he creates.
Beginning in his father’s woodshop when he was just a kid, Bakke took interest in the hobby that has influenced him his entire life. With the help of his dad, Woodshop classes in school, YouTube tutorials, and trial and error, he has learned the art of the trade and has now been making specially designed products for around 8 years.
Bakke’s range of products includes everything from bowls, vases, and figures such as mushrooms that often showcase the unique grain of the wood it was turned from.
The Wood Speaks for Itself
For his stylistic rustic bowls, Bakke keeps a ‘live edge’ which means that the original bark is left around the rim of the bowl. This design brings character to the piece and reflects the natural beauty of its wooden foundation.
All of Matt Bakke’s works come from the wood of many different trees, most of which are procured by happenstance. Whenever he finds local trees that are being cut down – such as Oak, Maple, Birch, Walnut and more – Matt is quick to claim the wood for new projects.
As for the ideas he gets for his distinctive designs - the wood itself “speaks to him”. Modifying the shapes to fit with his vision, Matt spends extra time highlighting the unique flaws and grains found in the wood. This leads to stunning works of art that are impossible to recreate and add immeasurable value to any home décor.
Items in this exhibit are available for purchase. They will create a memorable ambiance in your home and also be appreciated when given as gifts to the special folks in your life.
Be sure to schedule time to see the Busy Squirrel Turned Wood exhibit and shop the Gallery. This exhibit runs through October 28th. Gallery hours are Fridays and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Evansville Art Center is located at 111 Main Street in Evansville, Minnesota and is handicapped accessible.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Lake Region Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund and in part through a Minnesota State Legislative general fund appropriation.