February 15th – Keith Tompkins
It has been over fifty years since I created my first lathe-turned objects, yet I feel the same sense of accomplishment when I take an abstract concept and transform it into a completed object. Working at the lathe gives me a sense of complete freedom; and allows me to explore the limits of my creative ability. I find inspiration comes in many forms; a walk in the woods, the appearance of folds in a piece of fabric, or even a seemingly insignificant life experience. I keep a sketchbook handy; there is no way of knowing when inspiration will hit next. I expect each piece I produce to reflect my experiences as a furniture maker as well as a wood turner, as I strive to produce bold, dynamic pieces that reveal a small part of me. My woodworking career continues to lead me in new and often unexpected directions. I believe the best is yet to come.
Keith Tompkin’s Website
Photos from the Sunday workshop with Keith Tompkins that followed his Saturday demonstration.
March 15 – Michael Kehs
Michael Kehs, from Bucks County, PA, has exhibited in several US shows. For example, this includes the Challenge V: International Lathe Turned Objects Show and the National Speleological Society’s Fine Art Salon. Additionally, as an accomplished wood turner, he has won multiple awards. Likewise, he has made specialty crafts for important people and events.
Michael Kehs’ Website
Demonstration at Regular Club Meeting – March 15
Workshop Day – March 16 depending on demand.
Possible Workshops before or after club demonstration date. Email Mitch Friedman (mgfassoc@gmail.com) for details and availability if you are interested .
Photos form the Sunday workshop with Michael Keys that followed his Saturday demonstration.
Participants will need to bring TBD. Students should bring lunch to avoid losing time during the session.
April 18th – Elizabeth Weber
Elizabeth is a woodturning instructor who lives in Seattle, WA. She began woodworking in 2015, and some of her first creations included several pieces of furniture in the Arts & Crafts style. She eventually turned to smaller objects and now specializes in bowls, spoons, and boxes. Her skills range from natural finish and simple forms to highly carved and painted forms that emulate natural motifs. Elizabeth serves as club president for her local woodturning club, the Seattle Woodturners, and she helps run the local spoon club chapter, the Seattle Spoon Club. She was awarded the American Association of Woodturner’s 2023 Professional Outreach Program’s Artist Showcase as an emerging artist, and was recently featured on the cover of American Woodturner.
Elizabeth Weber’s Website
Demonstration at Regular Club Meeting – April 18th
Workshop Days – April 19th and 20th depending on demand. Email Mitch Friedman (mgfassoc@gmail.com) for details and availability if you are interested .
November 15th – Matt Monaco
Professional wood turner Matt Monaco is the founder and owner of Monaco Bowls in Springfield, Mo. With a strong connection to nature and a commitment to sustainable sourcing, Matt seeks out unique wood from the Ozarks region where he lives—wood that would otherwise go to waste. Matt has been a turner for 16 years, having worked with and assisted such masters of the craft as Richard Raffan. He also teaches widely, including at Arrowmont and Craft Supplies Utah, and for national wood turning clubs of the AAW.
Matt Monaco’s Website
Demonstration at Regular Club Meeting – January 18th
Workshop Days – November 16, 17, 18
Members who are still working will get priority scheduling for Sunday. Email Mitch Friedman (mgfassoc@gmail.com) for details and availability if you are interested .
Participants will need to bring a bowl blank which is rounded and fits on a midi lathe with a 12” throw. Ideally 10” or less to avoid challenges with the lathe. Participants should bring lunch to avoid losing time during the session.
Long Island Woodturners 