“The way you use your tools may not be according to the books; rather it is the way your hands and body feel when the work goes well that is the final interpretation of any knowledge. You are training still another part of you, perhaps the most important part of all - the centre of you which pulls it all together and gives it your meaning.” - James Krenov
This past Sunday evening as James, Yvonne and I finished wrapping his chair, in doing so wrapped up our seventeenth year of operations and our first term in the new school.
I was filled with deep gratitude as James completed his fine chair in white oak and seagrass. I’m not sure when I last saw such remarkable progress in a student in just one term as I saw with James this past term. It was a joy to watch his progression through wood selection, the increasingly complex joinery and shaping as he moved through the chair. Not only did he build a fine chair, but the skills he developed were equally impressive. A fine, dedicated craftsman, and kind and gentle soul.
The above image was taken while Matt and Yvonne were preparing for the first of two final glue ups of his wonderful floor cabinet. In his final term of composing Matt will hang the doors, complete the drawer insert, and carve the clock which will hang for the top rail, shown mocked up above. The cabinet is now completely assembled including the top rail and it has been wrapped carefully awaiting his return next month. This cabinet will mark a segue for this fine craftsman as he intends to make this craft his life. We are grateful to have him back next term as his meticulous work will serve as a fine example for our two first terms students who will be joining us from Switzerland and Canada.
I have always maintained that Yvonne is the heart of our school. This past Saturday, when Matt and I were preparing the cauls for his final assembly which would take place on the Sunday morning. Matt asked if I thought Yvonne would come in and help him with the final assembly. A piece he has worked on for multiple terms. I do think this speaks volumes about the impact Yvonne has on our students and just how well she is respected. She of course came in, and James joined us, for what was a very smooth assembly with a lot going on.
My break will be spent, walking in the woods, hanging out with Yvonne and our grandchildren, and mornings with the cabinet for the hall in Roberts Creek. Since this photograph was taken, I have the latches and fittings in, back pieces are selected and milled. Onto final surfaces and edge treatment, and an assembly when Yvonne has a moment. Although it might take some convincing to get her in from the yard. Be well and enjoy your work, I know I am.