WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum celebrates the variety and beauty of wood turning, one of the most popular craft art techniques today, in "Wood Turning since 1930." On view from March 15 through July 14, the exhibition traces the evolution of the craft from a functional hobby in the 1930s through the experimentation of the craft revival during World War II to the sophisticated art form exhibited today.

"This exhibition traces the progression of a 70-year tradition that resonates with all Americans," said Elizabeth Broun, the museum's Margaret and Terry Stent Director.

"Wood turning is a fascinating movement because it is rich with a long history and great variety," said Kenneth Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery. "The 130 objects in this exhibition demonstrate how this simple hobby has grown to encompass both the functional and the unconventional, including expressive qualities such as color and sculptural forms."

In the exhibition, "Compote" (about 1940s) by Carl Huskey represents the earliest trend in wood turning, one that was practiced in high school shop classes, factories and by hobbyists. Constructed of three separately turned parts, the simple and sleek conventional form is indicative of the early tradition.