Coopering is the ancient art of making wooden vessels such as barrels, butter churns, buckets, canteens, pitchers, piggins, etc. using only wood for staves and wood white oak bands with no nails or glue. Learn how to use the traditional tools and techniques the instructors’ family has used for six generations. Also, discuss how to select proper woods, such as cedar for staves and white oak for bands to complete your vessel. All levels welcome.
Instructor Bio:
Rick Stewart is the fifth generation in his family to cooper. He was taught by his grandfather Alex Stewart, who received an NEA National Heritage Fellowship. Rick has been coopering for 45 years, and I has participared in many events, including the1982 worlds fair, the Festival of American Folklife in Washington D C. Rick Spent 6 months in Japan as part of a US Japan creative artist exchange fellowship, for culture exchange of arts. Recieved Tennessee Governors Arts Award.
Brendan Stewart is the 6th generation in has family to follow the art of coopering. He was taught by his father, Rick Stewart. Brendan was awarded an apprenticeship program with the Tennessee Arts Commission and has demonstrated at several art exhibits and events.