The Shellharbour Woodcarving and Pyrography Group is exhibiting work at the Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM) this week, making use of the new gallery space.

Many of the group, which include some very well-known local artist woodcarvers, will be at GLaM during the week giving carving displays, pyrography workshops and demonstrations. Some of the works are for sale.

“All of our members are very active despite a couple being over 90 years old!” says Sandra Hamblen, who is also a member of the Kiama Woodcraft Group.

“Our main aim is to share our craft with others, so that they can enjoy the same satisfaction in working with the beautiful and diverse range of timbers, and the multitude of skills, designs and ideas which come from each member. 

“One, artist Alyssa Willstrop, is also proficient in Pyrography (Wood Burning), and she has added this perspective to our CV.”

Comfort Birds, made for those struggling with difficult mental or physical situations

The Woodworkers have shown their work at the Kiama Old Fire Station exhibitions, the Annual Timber Show at Moore Park, Illawarra Festival of Wood, Bulli and have carved five Totem Poles for Tarrawanna Public School and have a Totem Pole permanently installed on the Lake Illawarra Art Trail.

“Once you see a design that you love, it may start you on a carving journey,” says Sandra.

“There are so many directions to take – large, small, miniature, people, scenes, animals, buildings, family, caricatures - with knives, chisels, saws, machines, using a Dremel, rasps, sandpaper. 

“Kevin Gillis is the expert in wood and linocuts, John Unwin works in Huon Pine signs, Frank O’Connor can answer your question about What Next? You’ll never have a blank space in your creative mind again!”

Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM) Gallery Tues 5-Sat 9 July, 10-3pm 8 Blackwood Street, Gerringong. Free Admission.

If you are interested in joining, the Group meet at the Clubhouse in Wilga Close Albion Park Rail the first Monday of the month, the third Saturday and every Friday from 9.30am to 1.30pm. Annual subscription is $40. Enquiries to Sandra 0437 731 744.