Kathryn Cormier

Working from my home studio, I incorporate techniques of pyrography, carving, weaving, inlay, beadwork, ink dyes, pigments and gold leafing to transform a humble gourd into a sculptural art piece.

 The process by which I work begins with cutting open and cleaning the interior of the gourd. After the seeds and hardened pulp are removed, the interior is sanded and stained. Next the exterior is sanded and conditioned, and the design is hand sketched. Wood burning and carving follow, after which more sanding is done. Stains and dyes are applied, along with a variety of embellishments.
 Each gourd is unique, having its own characteristics of size, shape and form. Sometimes I have a design plan in mind, and sometimes the gourd takes the lead in what direction to go - I merely follow.
 My hope is to give the viewer pause, to wonder what exactly it is they are looking at, and to enjoy the beauty of the organic form of the gourd transformed into a piece of art.