Michelle Russell of Hancock will exhibit her impressive array of nature-inspired birch bark artwork at the Hancock Town Library Dec. 7 through Jan. 15.
Inspired by the land, plants, and animals around her, these unique creations speak to a love for all that is wild. The pieces are crafted in the art form known as pyrography – a process dating from the 17th century, which means ‘writing with fire’. Using wood-burning tools, and varying the tips, stroke and pressure, she is able to achieve a large range of tones and shades, and detail. Russell uses birch bark from trees that have fallen down on nearby roadsides and trails.
Growing up in the woods and in a home that was always alive with some form of art, she naturally blended the two in her creative explorations. Her work reveals a compassionate sensitivity to the wildlife and landscapes she illustrates.
“I owe so much to the natural colors and beauty and texture of the bark. I like to think about what a tree has witnessed, and finding images that feel like they belong on the bark,” Russell said
There will be an opening reception Sunday, Dec. 8, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Daniels Room of the library.
Russell’s artwork can be viewed at www.humminghands.com
The exhibit can be viewed during regular library hours: Monday and Wednesday, from 2 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call the library at 525-4411 before your visit to ensure no special events are scheduled at that time.