The Association of Woodturners of Great Britain (AWGB) have undertaken a new initiative in memory of Ray Key, the founding Chairman of the AWGB in. He was awarded life membership in the AWGB in 1997 and appointed President in 1998. Ray was also made a Life Member of The American Association of Woodturners also in 2001, the first non-American so honored.
The Ray Key Bursary Award is open to all ages and its intended purpose is to provide an extended package of training and support for turners who have been identified as budding prodigies, standing out from the crowd in some way or showing great promise. The support could take the form of training, mentoring or other support tailored to the individual. Each award is up to £750 (~$950) but this could be extended if the reviewing panel decided it was justified. Any successful applicant will need to agree to a plan to carry out the objectives of the award and to report back at agreed intervals.
The aim is to give a boost to those identified as worthy on their journey to excellence as a turner. Any member of the AWGB can apply with the form found here.
