Jim Brown (photo by Kathy Stauffer)
Kim Bowie
A year and a half ago Jim Brown dropped by the Woodcarving room just to see what was going on. He had been attempting a walking stick for a grandson. One of the carvers handed him a piece of cottonwood bark and Jim discovered a talent he didn’t know he had. His first carvings are detailed, whimsical, and beyond what one would expect from a novice. All his work is done with knives and gouges. He started with several cottonwood bark carvings of faces and houses. At present he is working on a yellow cedar beaver mask in the style of the Coastal Natives. They are on display in the Creative Arts Center (CAC) outside the Quail Room. Jim was chosen as the Woodcarver of the Month for April. The announcement brought a big round of applause from club members.
Jim has added greatly to the club. He is teaching beginner classes and has organized a knife carving group. He is known for his great sense of humor and interesting conversations. For some reason, he often leaves his keys hanging from his locker at the end of a day. This delights another member who hides them and sends him on a treasure hunt.
Jim grew up in LaGrange, Wyo., a very small town in the southeastern corner of the state. He and his best friend from early childhood married sisters. Jim and Kathy spend time in Wyoming for part of the year, fishing and exploring.
Drop by the Quail Room anytime to see what Jim and other carvers are working on.