Show on now until August 5

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A dynamic new art exhibition is on now in Alton. 

On July 6, an opening reception for Headwaters Arts' new show, “Trilogy”, was held in the Headwaters Arts Gallery at the Alton Mill Arts Centre. 

The show features painter Marnie Cooke, glass artist Kathryn Thompson, and wood turner Lawrence Kristan. 

Over 90 works of art are on display in the exhibition, which will run until August 5. 

Kristan explained he uses fallen and found wood as the starting point for almost every piece of art he makes. He used to have a wood shop as a business, and picked up the art of wood turning after retirement.

Kristan said he loves his new hobby, and, since he started, he's been slowly seeing his work featured in more and more galleries. He's also sold many items.

Being a wood turner, Kristan is always on the hunt for his next piece. He said he gets a lot of satisfaction out of making art from something that would normally just be left to rot or be tossed in a fire. 

“I really enjoy when people appreciate what I do,” said Kristan.

Wood turning has become a family affair for Kristan, as his daughter Lucy now wood turns with him. 

Kristan said Lucy tries all kinds of experimental and time-consuming wood turning projects that are very impressive.

Lucy said planning is a very important part of wood turning, and that oftentimes it will take longer to talk about a piece of art than it will to turn it.

“It's so fun to work together,” said Lucy.

The Headwaters Arts gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday at the Alton Mill Arts Centre, which is located at 1402 Queen Street West.