Experience a landmark retrospective of prolific woodturner David Ellsworth (1944–2025), whose enduring legacy revolutionized a craft rooted in the functional survival of early Americans into a globally recognized fine art form.
Hosted on our campus, the birthplace of the modern woodturning movement, this exhibition features works spanning 50 years from the Ellsworth family’s private collection. As a master turner and a 40-year instructor at Arrowmont, Ellsworth helped build a diverse community of artists, bridging the gap between traditional Appalachian folk craft and contemporary American art.
Left to Right, Top to Bottom | Photos by Bill Green
1. “Macassar Ebony Pot”, Macassar Ebony, 1989, 7 .” h x 12 1/4”d (1989-005)
2. Hollow Vessel, Norway maple Burl, 1988, 9 .” h x 14”d (1988-003)
3. Hollow Vessel, Black Walnut Burl, 1982, 4 3/4”h x 6 1/4”d (1982-002)
4. Hollow Form #1, Brazilian Rosewood w/Pao Ferro lamination, 1976, 1 .”h x 6 5/8”d (1976-001)
5. Hollow Form, Brazilian Rosewood, 1979, 2 .” h x 8 3/8”d (1979-003)
The Cradle of the Modern Woodturning Movement
The craft of woodturning is woven into the DNA of East Tennessee. What began as a trade of necessity (producing the bowls, spinning wheels, and architectural spindles of the 1700s and 1800s) found its rebirth as an art form here in East Tennessee.
In 1985, Ellsworth was at the helm of the most significant event in modern woodturning history at Arrowmont, co-founding the American Association of Woodturners (AAW). This exhibition celebrates that history and ensures the Tennessee story of woodturning remains a vibrant part of our nation’s cultural heritage.
Join Us for the Exhibition Reception
We invite the community and visiting artists to join us for a special evening celebrating David’s life and work.
This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee administered by the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial.
Additional support for this exhibition provided by Champagne Law Firm.
