South Africa Woodturning pics from 2002

My botanical research takes me to South Africa every couple of years. My first trip was in 1996, and I've been there in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004. I've been lucky to make a lot of friends in the woodturning community over there beginning in 1999 - especially with my club away from home, the Western Cape Woodturners Association. I'm dusting off some old pics and will post some images from previous trips to South Africa when I'm not busy with other stuff. Here's the first batch of woodturning-related photos from 2002:


The Western Cape Woodturners meet in a hobby club in the Pinelands of Cape Town. They share a dedicated building with some other craft groups. I was so impressed that they have a dedicated facility with a well-equipped shop. They meet on Wednesday evenings - once per month for a regular club meeting, and the other weeks for hands-on mentoring or special sessions. They're a great group of turners and I love it when I can find time in my field season to make a visit.


Dennis Laidler is a good friend and talented turner who is worth keeping an eye on. I helped the club out at an event at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden.


Here I'm having a go on the Record minilathe, which was pretty challenging to use. Dennis has since upgraded to a Stubby Lathe, but this little lathe is pretty convenient for packing and hauling. I can't believe I had such long hair! I keep it pretty short these days.


These are some turners from Knysna, which is on the south coast, and a very lovely place to visit. L to R: Grant Marshall, Dave Stephensen, Dennis Marshall (Grant's father). They have a gallery called "The Natural Edge," which is a co-op shared by these turners and including Mike Kaplan.


Here's one of Grant's oak vessels. I have one similar to this in my private collection.