RCW is an _international ng, so I'll grieve for and remember with appreciation and pride America's "Great Generations" somewhere other than here, on this USA Memorial Day. However there are some generations that woodturners everywhere might want to remember. I think it adds immeasurably, whether craft or art, hobby or business for all of us to learn something of woodturning's history and perhaps remember our heritage.
Woodturning has become unbelievably popular with so many avenues to explore and a huge choice of fine affordable equipment that was unknown only a few years ago. Today, the willingness to share knowledge and modern ways to impart it, spares us the long apprenticeships of the past. Forums such as this are examples.
How can we enjoy such bounty, yet be true to all we have inherited and in a meaningful way remember the honest and difficult beginnings of our craft? We are amazed at the exquisite designs and marvelous execution of the turnings of today, but are we a bit too sophisticated and do we know too much? Maybe not, but are we getting spoiled by so much 'progress' and could we do with a dose of humility?
I know we are supposed to keep open minds toward advances and stay on the cutting edge of the craft, but there is no harm in celebrating the work of those who turned before us.
A suggestion: How about turning something plain and ordinary with simple tools today as a mark of respect and thanks? It might be a way to enhance the enjoyment of a great craft and link us with those who came before. A homely bowl, rough chair leg or tacky candlestick with no decoration or enhancement kept in the shop might keep us humble and that's not a bad thing.
p.s. This mushy musing will nauseate some of you, but no one can say it's not politically correct. :)
Turn to Safety, Arch Fortiter