Sheri Smith

My earliest recollections of fiber arts date back to my pre-teen years, during which my mother and grandmother instructed me in the art of crochet, knitting, and cross-stitch. I leveraged these newfound skills to create twelve dozen knit purses, which I successfully sold to a department store at the age of 13. This entrepreneurial venture served as a catalyst for my development, keeping me focused and out of trouble during my formative years in Los Angeles.

In 1980 while living across the river from Belknap Hot Springs, our only access being a cable car over the river and living off the grid, my sister-in-law introduced me to pine needle basketry. I had made other basketry forms prior, but this was it for me!  The coiling process has so many possibilities. Teaching and creating this art form over the past 30+ years has brought me years of delight. I am a lover of the natural world and this brings it all together.

Dean Jordan

Dean, a Master Wood Turner, has been creating artistic and practical items on his lathe since age 11 when his grandpa taught him how to turn his first bowl.   Dean also turns Alabaster to make bowls and vases.

Having studied with the late great wood turner, Frank Sudol, Dean has applied what he learned from Frank to expand his artistic expression.  Most recently, Dean has been perfecting the art of hydro-dipping turned wood pieces.  Working on his lathe to create is a form of therapy for Dean and his contribution to the Multiverse.

Back in the 1970’s Dean started Beaver State Wood Turners, which continues to flourish to this day.  They meet the fourth Thursday of each month at the Coburg School.

Dean retired about seven years ago having worked as a Physician’s Assistant for 30 plus years.  When he is not in his shop, he is busy fishing, gardening, enjoying live music, and hanging out with his life partner, Joyce. Dean can be reached at woodguy@peak.org.