The AAW has put out a call for entries for the 2020 AAW Symposium Themed Member Exhibition. The symposium is being held in Louisville, Kentucky and the exhibition theme is Step up to the Plate. There are two different options for this theme: baseball or horses. Baseball and woodturning go way back and are closely linked, so the theme for 2020 will be baseball related, but don’t feel constrained. Along with being America’s pastime, baseball also contributed many expressions to our language, including “Step up to the plate,” which has been defined as a willingness to take responsibility for something, to rise to the occasion, to accept a challenge. For many of us, finding the best in each piece of wood, each new project, is a chance to rise to a challenge. The phrase also could be a jumping-off point for a narrative work about a personal or societal challenge. Step up to the Plate was also the theme for the 2006 AAW member exhibit. Sometimes a theme is so good we just need to see a replay.
The exhibition is open to any AAW member and full-time students in art, design, or industry-related programs regardless of membership status. All types of turnings are welcome. The entry fee is $25 for up to three items. Applications are due by March 15, 2020 and artists will be notified by Marcy 31, 2020.
More information can be found on the exhibition call web page.

This month Cynthia Gibson will be our demonstrator at the regular October membership meeting. Cynthia’s work is elegant and distinctive, and often combines coloring in unusual and beautiful ways. Her unique style of pyrography has gained international recognition. The opportunity to attend demonstrations at regular meetings are a part of what your SPSW dues pay for each year. You can see Cynthia’s work on her website
After a 39 year run of annual symposiums culminating in 2018, the executive board of the Utah Woodturning Symposium has decided to discontinue the symposium. A statement on the Symposium website says:
Pat McCart: Sharpening using the Wolverine Jig System(Bring tools you need sharpened)




