Tales From the Tavern Carvings

 

Signed Sam Baker carving in Mahogany
Signed Sam Baker carving in Mahogany

I have created a couple of shallow relief carvings from photographs taken at the Tales From the Tavern series in Santa Ynez, California. The first was of personal favorite, Sam Baker.

Singer/songwriter Dave Alvin in Mahogany
Singer/songwriter Dave Alvin in Mahogany

Next up was Dave Alvin. At his Fall 2016 show, producer, Ron Colone, showed the carving to Dave prior to going on. Dave was smitten by it, so it was his. I met him after the show and signed the piece, which was carved in Mahogany (as was the Sam Baker carving).

Carving is my go-to rainy day activity. Hopefully, a wet winter will give me the opportunity to expand this series.

 

 

Tom and Dave after his Fall 2016 Tales From the Tavern show.
Tom and Dave after his Fall 2016 Tales From the Tavern show.

 

Early stages of the Sam Baker carving, 2015. The blue lines indicate areas which go under the adjacent surfaces.
Early stages of the Sam Baker carving, 2015. The blue lines indicate areas which go under the adjacent surfaces.

Janet’s 80th Birthday Celebration

Gastil Family December 22, 2016
Gastil Family December 22, 2016

Friends and family gathered to celebrate Janet Gastil’s 80th birthday on the rainy evening of December 22, 2016.

Stories, music, food and friendships were shared. Many hands made the setup a party in itself.

Nan Couts Cottage, part of the La Mesa Community Recreation Center, was a perfect setting for the special occasion.

The smiling birthday girl.
The smiling birthday girl.

Over the years, Janet has performed and taught music, been active in politics, real estate and with Friends (Quakers) – all while raising a family. Children Garth, Gastil, George and John were with her on this evening.