Discoveries…America—Artist Profiles: Wood Sculptors

This illuminating documentary from Jim and Kelly Watt's high-definition-filmed Discoveries … America series takes viewers on a trip across the U.S. to meet (or learn about) a number of artists doing exquisite work with woodcarving. Among the chapters is a stop in Alaska to meet Native carver Duane Bosch, who creates Northern Tlingit–style art objects (boxes, masks, and other items); a visit with Maryland's Pat Vincenti, maker of beautiful duck decoys (leading to a subsequent trip to the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum); a breathtaking tour of the legacy of Pennsylvania sculptor Wharton Esherick, who brought unique forms to wooden furniture and all-wood environments; and a glimpse of a Chattanooga factory where gorgeous carousel animals are lovingly made under the guidance of Bud Ellis. Other artists featured here include Vermont chainsaw craftsman Max Osorio, Maine fish carver Gene Bahr, and the Woody family of North Carolina, representing seven generations of Early American handcrafted chair makers. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh)