A Bird in the Hand: The Carvings of Elmer and Cleon Crowell
Sunday, September 07, 2008 to Friday, October 31, 2008
A Bird in the Hand: The Carvings of Elmer and Cleon Crowell highlights the museum’s large collection of Crowell bird carvings.
As a boy in East Harwich, Elmer Crowell was interested in birds, hunting and art. He began his career by making a few carvings for friends and eventually began to carve full-time. He opened his workshop just as tourists were beginning to come to the Cape and many bought his carvings as souvenirs. It wasn’t long before he and his son Cleon were working in a factory-type way to keep up with all the orders.
Along the way, Elmer Crowell carved some of the best bird carvings ever made. His work is highly regarded not only for the quality of the carving but also the fine painting. Heritage is fortunate to care for hundreds of carvings, as well as the materials the Crowells used to create their masterpieces including paper patterns, source materials, and tools. The exhibit includes many fine examples of carvings, as well as a replica of his workshop. An activity center for children is also included where they can dress as a birdwatcher, scout for particular birds in the exhibit, hear bird calls and more.
Are you a bird carver ? Carve and paint a Miniature Yellow-Legs Bird sculpture under the tutelage of Steven Weaver, Wakeby Wildlife Studio in Sandwich on Ocotber 17 ! For more info, click here: Carving Workshop