“The Swing” was carved from a tree harvested in Lancaster City in 2015. Slowly over the past nine years, bits and pieces were removed with chisels and knives to reveal “The Swing.” This twisting pose depicts the moment at the top of the swing, the transition point between the wind up and the release. It is in this moment of clarity that one’s gaze is set on its target, and for a brief moment, the back and forth become indistinguishable. Tension abounds in this work as her athletic and aged body pushes to the edge of the original tree stump. Although the specific implement she is swinging is up to the viewer’s interpretation, we can imagine an ax, a bat, or a golf club. This tree reminds us of all that is glorious about being a human in motion. Is there a more satisfying feeling than an ax passing through a log, the crack of a bat, or a perfectly struck golf ball? My first actions in creating this work were swings of the ax and mallet and this joy of moment resulted in “The Swing”.
“I practice the spiritual art of woodworking. It’s a form of woodworking that embraces the earth, human energy, and ancient skills. Using hand tools, my approach to woodworking is one that communes with the woods and trees that live with me in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There is a sacred aspect to the work that I do, with a transformation process that is both mystical and magical.”
BANCROFT STUDIO