ASF Fellowship - The Project
I was recently awarded an Artist Fellowship grant by the American Scandinavian Foundation. In this blog entry I’ll share some info about my project.
Sustaining Pole Lathe Turning in the Midwest
For centuries the spring pole lathe proved itself as a critical piece of technology throughout Europe for turning bowls, plates, cups, furniture components, and a variety of other items for both everyday use and ceremonial use. In Nordic countries, the pole lathe played a significant roll in small and large scale production of wood-turnings for centuries before industrialization. Many of the turnings made on a pole lathe were vessels. Some held food or beverage, others important belongings and documents.
While I haven’t yet seen any evidence of these turning traditions immigrating with folks from Nordic countries to the Midwest, I’ve seen many pole lathe turned antiques and heirlooms in communities that have a significant presence of Nordic heritage, much like my hometown of Stoughton, WI, which at the beginning of the 20th century 75% of the population was Norwegian.
Jarrod demonstrates turning a mandrel to students at a North House Folk School
As far as I am aware, pole lathe turning gained attention about 15 years ago in the midwest with woodworkers like Jarrod Dahl in Ashland, and Roger Abrahamson in Minneapolis, MN. Over the years Jarrod and Roger have been turning/selling work, demonstrating, and teaching classes. Between the two of them they’ve introduced a significant amount of people to pole lathe turning inspiring another craftspeople to carry this craft forward. Whether or not it was Roger and Jarrods intention, they have sparked a modern tradition of pole lathe turning in the midwest.
Through this project, my goal is to sustain pole lathe turning in the Midwest, encompassing these three nonconsecutive phases:
1. Historical research
Ølbolle, dated 1851 with Rosemaling
Over the course of the year I’ll be studying the cultural context of spring pole lathe turning in Scandinavia. This work will include traveling to Decorah, Iowa to visit the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum where I will analyze the physical characteristics of antique vessels in the museum’s folk art collection in order to establish a greater understanding of the relationship of their design, their function, and the techniques used to make them. Additionally I aim to learn more about the cultural context and traditions behind these vessels, as well as learn about the societal and economic factors that related to pole lathe turning.
2. Skill Development
I plan to enhance my skills and knowledge in pole lathe turning under the guidance of my mentor, Jarrod Dahl, over the course of two 5-day skill development sessions at the Woodspirit School of Traditional Craft in Ashland, WI. Jarrod will also work with me on the vocabulary and skills to effectively share this knowledge with others.
As I write this, Jarrod and I have finished our first session, fueling my enthusiasm to continue practicing and work towards sharing this rare skill.
3. Building for the future
To accomplish my goal of sharing the joy and reward of this craft, I will build a set of four lathes and peripherals for hands-on programs and classes. Building these lathes will also further expand my knowledge and experience, as well as provide me with equipment that will benefit programs in my hometown community and organizations throughout the midwest.
I’m incredibly grateful to the American Scandinavian Foundation for supporting my work as a craftsperson and prospective teacher. Thank you!
