EVENTS
Inspired by History
The CenterFest Art Festival is held in downtown Durham every September, an annual tradition that began in 1974. CenterFest showcases juried visual artists like woodturner Marc Banka from all over the country and has talented, stand-out local performers on multiple stages. Art lovers and collectors are wowed by ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, glass, and many other mediums. CenterFest also features dancers, one-of-a-kind street performers, and musicians to provide continuous entertainment for the whole family.
‘Calabash’ on Display
This 13 x 9 piece that was selected is a lovely example of the form known as a Calabash, a treasured Hawaiian form that predates western contact and the tools they introduced. The wood came from a very large neighborhood Sweetgum tree.
Likely the cause of a broken sewer line, the tree had to be removed and Banka was fortunate enough to receive a good amount of its amazing wood, in the form of very large logs.
Instead of attempting exact copies of an original Hawaiian Calabash, he chose to embrace the spirit of the bowl. Although the differences are slight, they are enough that he doesn't refer to what he’s made as a “Hawaiian Calabash.”
Just “Calabash” is fine.
This piece took about two years to complete. See this fantastic Hawaiian design, as well as other items on display at The Durham Art Guild’s 68th Annual Juried Exhibition at Truist Gallery, on display until December 3rd.
Visit Marc Banka Next Year
This past year was Marc’s first full art festival, and first juried event. He had an amazing time chatting with people who stopped to admire his work and enjoy the warm, sunny weather.
Visit Marc next year at CenterFest and see his beautiful woodwork for yourself. But you don’t have to wait until the festival to enjoy one of these magnificent woodturnings. Browse his extraordinary gallery now and select a piece for your home today. Or contact us with questions or to purchase an original woodturning piece.
Make sure you visit this page again for news on upcoming events.
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