A Revolution in Wood

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A Revolution in Wood celebrates the remarkable gift of sixty-six turned and carved wood pieces to the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum by collectors Fleur and Charles Bresler. Lavishly illustrated, this collection showcases works by renowned American wood artists, highlighting the sophistication of this young medium and the expressive potential of wood. Masterpieces by pioneers like David Ellsworth, William Hunter, and Rude Osolnik exemplify the diverse expressions achievable with the lathe, the foundational tool of the craft. Recent works by artists such as Ron Fleming and Michelle Holzapfel introduce innovative techniques, including multi-axis turning and carving. Renwick Curator Nicholas R. Bell's extensive essay explores the historical roots of contemporary wood art and its rapid evolution since the 1970s, emphasizing its development beyond the studio craft movement. An interview with Fleur Bresler by former Curator-in-Charge Kenneth R. Trapp reveals her passion for wood and her commitment to the artists she regards as family. The final section, “Wood Art at the Renwick Gallery,” features over two hundred works by more than one hundred artists, making this premier public collection available in print for the first time. This guide will serve as a valuable reference for years to come, documenting the evolution of wood art from James Prestini's original gift to contemporary innovations.