Bound together by Natural Selection (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Bound together by Natural Selection

NATURAL Selection is an exhibition of new work by 12 artists and craftsmen which takes place in the Great Oak Hall at the National Arboretum, Westonbirt from May 24-29.

It includes the work of Philip Smith MBE who has revolutionised the craft of bookbinding over the past 50 years and, in particular, has created many beautiful bindings for Lord of the Rings.

He is joined by Christopher White who makes high-fired stoneware for both the home and garden, blacksmith Maurice Long who can forge hot iron into almost anything and stonecarver Greg Tricker who is at present working on a larger-than-life carving of St Francis.

Dave Johnson does large scale wood carvings, often working on standing or damaged trees. His work has featured in gold medal winning gardens at, for example, the Chelsea Flower Show, in recent years.

The work of internationally recognised leatherworkers Neil MacGregor and Valerie Michael reveals an understanding of the innate working qualities of different leathers. Recent commissions include the leather seats and backs for dining chairs at Longleat House and a moulded leather bowl for the Museum of Leatherwork.

Jenny Crisp makes traditional baskets and trays using willow, oak slats and willow bark. Regarded as one of the finest basket makers working today, she grows her own willow in Herefordshire.

Gudrun Lietz was master pole-lathe turner at the reconstruction of the Globe Theatre and was also a leading member of the team which built the Great Oak Hall at Westonbirt. Her work explores traditional greenwood techniques to create contemporary free-form furniture.

The exhibition is open daily from 10am-4pm