A trip to the Des Moines Art Center is a great way to spend a cold winter day. The current temporary exhibit  (October 15, 2022-January 15, 2023) is wood art named "THE SUM OF IT" by Alison Elizabeth Taylor.

Views of a Farm Boy--Dedicated to promote Iowa agriculture and Iowa values--Robert Vaughn--Urbandale, Iowa  EMAIL:   vaughnrobert@me.com

But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."  (ESV) (1 Samuel 16: 7)

Artist Alison Elizabeth Taylor reverts back to the age old techniques of marquetry (wood inlay) to create some modern art works that are a beauty to behold. She skillfully incorporates wood and materials such as oil, shellac, acrylic, etc. to make everyday subjects come to life. I love these photos that were taken with the permission of the art center staff. However, you really need to see the real thing  before it leaves town January 15, 2023, for the full effect. The artist calls this 40 panel exhibit, "THE SUM OF IT", and I have just shown you "some of it".

How could I ever pass up the opportunity to show you my version of wood art (below). This baseball bat is in my exercise room. Look! No trademark, logo or identification! I made this on a wood lathe in 1949 in shop class at Anthon High School. You are right! There is no artistic talent here and it has no material value. But one of these times I will give it to our grandson, Grant. I'm sure he will think it is more than just a piece wood or even an example of wood art. I'm sure he will think it is a real treasure just because his grandpa made it about 75 yeas ago.