Dayton...errr...Wilmington 2016 Artistry in Wood

Ryan Olsen-cast of Caricatures

 Another road trip...this time to Wilmington Ohio for the 2016 Artistry in Wood show.  I wasn't sure what to expect but the CCA organization was in attendance and couldn't pass on seeing the gang and talking carving.
This year's show was a challenge as most folks know...the old venue near the Dayton Airport was sold and closed which left the club seeking a venue worthy of attendance.  They found one in the guise of the Roberts Centre just down the road in Wilmington.  Of course the standard November date was not available so they had to go with what they could achieve which turned out to be Labor Day weekend.  While all of the normal attendees could not make it due to the date change a large number did (Heinecke, Woodcarving Illustrated, The Woodcraft shop...to name a few).  The quality of the pieces on display were worth the trip with the CCA Members displaying some of their wares joined by carvers of the likes Terry Brasher (Aerosmith carving was outstanding!),  Dylan Goodson (some great chain mail carved on a knight), Fred Zavadil (amazing relief carving that makes you drool), Al Jordan (hey he's from my club!!!...with his outstanding display of birds), Gary Falin (wow, he has stepped up his carving game fer sure) and many more.
Now, I only attend this show around every 4 years (usually timing it with CCA visits) the show is truly a must-see.  All caricature carvers should attend at least once in their carving lifetime as it exposes you to a wide array of talent and vendors. 
Hmm, now on to the venue...the Roberts Centre is conveniently located right off exit # 50 off Route 71 (Wilmington is SE of Dayton).  The venue includes a hotel (Holiday Inn-currently being renovated),  a restaraunt (standard american fare), and the Centre.  The show venue is truly a step up from the old location (appears to be a recent build) with ample bathrooms and space to accomodate the show.  As far as accomodations,  like most folks we were unable to acquire a room at the hotel as it was booked by the time we decided to go.  We did stay 2 exits up the road near a Tanger Outlet and others stayed at a nearby Holiday Inn Express,  no complaints here however room prices are higher than what we experienced in Dayton and that is a concern for a large number of folks.
Overall my hat goes off to Dayton Carvers Guild...they did an excellent job of adapting to change and from the lines waiting to get in it appeared attendance was not too far off.  I know that the club is seeking to return to their old dates, but as far as venue goes I think they have a good one.  Great job!

Yes, it's a holiday and that means I get to carve...are you carving?