Woodworker conducts hands-on workshops

The Hawaii Forest Industry Association and the Hawaii Forest Institute have arranged a demonstration day and workshop on Hawaii Island presented by woodworker Binh Pho in conjunction with Hawaii’s Woodshow, Na Lau o Hawaii.

Critically acclaimed artist Pho is known for his expansive approach to woodwork including painting, a unique exploration of positive and negative space and a highly personal iconography that relates to Asian culture and the natural world. The hands-on demonstration and workshop are unique opportunities for anyone interested in enhancing their skills to work alongside an internationally recognized woodworker.

“I put a soul into every piece I create. I don’t make objects. I create characters. If the viewers can pick up on that soul, I’ve accomplished it,” said Pho.

The Hawaii Island demonstration is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 23 at 73-4260 Hulikoa Drive in Kailua-Kona. The hands-on workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 24 at Tai Lake Fine Woodworking located at 76-5823 Mamalahoa Hwy. in Holualoa. The cost to attend the Saturday demonstration is $40 if registration is received by Aug. 13 and $50 if received later or at the door. The Sunday hands-on workshop is limited to eight registered participants and the cost is $100.

Pho’s work reflects the Far East culture and his journey to the West. Pho’s work is collected by The White House Collection of American Crafts in Washington, D.C., Carnegie Art Museum in Pittsburg, Pa., and the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City.

Anyone interested in registering may do so at woodshow.hawaiiforest.org/resources/seminars-and-workshops or by calling Andy Cole at 778-7036.

Hawaii’s Woodshow is scheduled Aug. 31 through Sept. 15 at the Honolulu Museum of Art School at Linekona, Oahu. The exhibition is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free.