MAY ARTIST OF THE MONTH | BOB HOLTJE
Did you know that GreenHill shows the work of over 100 North Carolinian artists all year round? Each month we shine the spotlight on one of the artists on view at GreenHill to help you find the artwork that inspires you. This month, we’d like to introduce you to woodworker Bob Holtje.
GreenHill has sold wooden creations by Bob for almost ten years. His work makes the perfect "thinking of you" gift for anyone - his layered wood trivets and cutting boards are some of his best sellers in GreenHill's shop. Bob says, "you never know what is hidden in a piece of wood until you start turning it." All of the items photographed in this post are available for sale in the shop. Call or email Elizabeth Harry to purchase at 336-333-7460 or Elizabeth.Harry@GreenHillNC.org
Read Bob's story, below:
"I have been woodturning for over 15 years. My work is creative and functional. It started when I took a pen making class at Woodcraft in Virginia. I showed my wife the pen and pencil set, which I made in only three hours. The next day I went out and bought a Jet mini-lathe.
I gave my work to all my clients, family and friends and still had lots of pieces left over, so I decided to try selling my work. Now I’m one of the top sellers at Sawtooth’s annual Deck the Halls show. I also show work at places like Red Dog Gallery, Sawtooth, Southwinds Gallery, DAD, and local craft shows. Most of the wood I use is local (cherry, oak, maple, walnut, others) and imported and exotic wood from around the world. My work includes bowls, pens, wine stoppers, unique cutting boards, hollow forms, pepper mills, ice cream scoops, candle holders, beer openers, tops, ring holders, and more.
I helped start the woodturning program at Sawtooth School for Visual Arts, and also taught for three years. I’m a member of the AAW, American Association of Woodturners and Treasurer of PTWA, Piedmont Triad Woodturners Association.
My favorite saying and advice is: just do it!"