UU Gallery Exhibits Roger J. Benedict’s Relief Sculpture

“Moonlight” by Roger J. Benedict

The June exhibit at the UU Gallery will feature relief sculptures by Roger J. Benedict. On June 9 from 2 – 4 pm, there will be a reception to meet the artist and learn about his sculpting techniques. Benedict’s show will run from June 3 – 25.

Benedict focuses on woodcarving in the style of relief carvings. This style enables him to express his interest in elements of nature from an organic point of view. He explains that, “his technique is adopted from European schools that emphasize specific tools.” The finished carving has a patina of carefully blended cut strokes to give depth and contrast.

As Benedict carves a subject he appreciates the sensuous feel of life returning to the wood. The smell of the wood with the visual and audible senses of chip removal makes him feel “aware of an unknown tree.” He is convinced that “carving provides a meditative value in the creation of the image.”

Even though carving is a slow process, Benedict “enjoys the journey with high anticipation of seeing the finished shape beginning to happen.”

Benedict has taught relief carving at the Clearing Folk School in Ellison Bay and also completed a large composite commission for the school.

The UU Gallery is located on Highway 42 in Ephraim. Gallery hours are 1 – 3 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; and 11 am – 12:30 pm on Sunday.

For more information visit http://www.uufdc.org.