Pyrography at the Shed

Woodburning is one of the oldest forms of art, using two elements of the natural world: wood and fire. The generic term Pyrography (from the Greek pyros=fire and grafo=to write) refers to the same technique applied on any suitable surface like wood, leather, gourds, even paper.

I grew up in the Balkans where folk art of any kind -from music played by ancestral instruments and symbolic circle dances, to storytelling woven tapestries, paintings and carvings- is an essential part of the ethos.

I learned the art of pyrography in my junior school years, as part of a course exploring folk art applied to a variety of media. I was from the beginning attracted to woodburning, probably keen to take on the challenge of drawing without the possibility of erasing. I intermittently continued my interaction with this form of art throughout my life and I always relied on its soothing and therapeutic power whenever life was more demanding than usual.

Although I would not say that I have a favourite subject, I believe my love of pets and children transpires through my pyrographies.

Natural or artificial colours can be added to pyrography, however, as all my students know, I was always a purist, considering that the main beauty of this ancient art lays in the infinite sepia tones that can be achieved using appropriate tools and techniques.

Throughout my life I participated in exhibitions and demos in various countries as Romania, Greece and Australia and I gained awards at several competitions, including Sydney’s Royal Easter Show. Other than creating new works though, most of all I enjoy popularising pyrography. I see holding classes and sharing my passion for woodburning as a truly fulfilling activity.

Pyrography classes are held at the Shed on a Saturday once a month (depending on demand, February to September) from 10am to 12pm. If you are interested in attending please contact us.

Anka Leivi

http://www.anka-leivi.net/
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