Beyond the Basics: Gourd Art

A common wild gourd becomes a thing of beauty in the hands of 25 top artisans who specialize in exploring, expressing--and teaching--their handiwork. Magnificent projects shown in illuminating full-color photos and practical skills introduce you to a diversity of ways to turn gourds into works of art. You use simple media such as staining, stenciling, carving, and pyrography, which are all clearly explained. Projects include an elaborate teapot with a metallic finish; carved oak and maple leaf bowls; "Path to Harmony" gourd with mother of pearl, abalone and turquoise inlay; carved gourd lamps; hand painted and decorated masks; gourd birdhouse with pyrographed Celtic design; lizard and broken pottery designs; and "Baby's New Shoes" with carved, pyrographed, painted finish.

Library Journal

Advanced projects from 25 artists using gourds as a medium are featured here. Intricate carving and embellishment with many materials make these more than just decorated gourds. A fascinating group project is the Gourd Patch Quilt wall hanging, a collection of painted four-inch square gourd tiles stitched to a quilt backing. Several photos of each artist's previous work accompany the projects. This book is recommended for all arts and craft collections. Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.