The Artisans of Humboldt: A Glimpse into the Work of John Wesa and Eric Christian

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Wesa’s serigraphy works are characterized by their dynamic energy and expressive brushstrokes, often reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

  • His inspiration comes from the stunning landscapes of Humboldt County, which has been his home for over 50 years.
  • Wesa’s studio in McKinleyville is a testament to his deep connection with the land and its inhabitants.
  • The artist’s work is not limited to traditional subjects; he often incorporates elements of nature, such as trees, rocks, and animals, into his compositions.

Eric Christian, on the other hand, is a master of woodworking, with a passion for creating beautiful and functional pieces that reflect his connection to the natural world.

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Species Hardwood Color
Sapele Poplar Cherry Maple

Christian’s woodworking journey began at a young age, and he has since honed his skills through dedication and experimentation.

“I’m passionate about woodworking, and one of my favorite outings is a trip to Almquist Lumber, where I sift through their impressive selection of hardwoods,” Eric Christian said.

Christian’s approach to woodworking is not just about creating beautiful pieces, but also about incorporating elements of surprise and discovery.

  1. He often lets spontaneity take over when selecting wood, leading to unexpected and exciting results.
  2. Christian’s projects often feature a primary wood species as the foundation, which he enhances with accents in contrasting colors for visual pop.
  3. He is also fortunate to have a network of local woodworking friends who share their incredible figured wood with him.

One of Christian’s most prized possessions is his collection of miscellaneous hardwood stash in his shop, where hidden gems often emerge.

Wesa’s serigraphy works, on the other hand, are characterized by their dynamic energy and expressive brushstrokes, often reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

The Art of Serigraphy

Wesa’s artistic journey began in the 1960s, and he has since become one of the most respected artists in the region.

Definition
Serigraphy
Artistic medium

Wesa’s use of serigraphy is a unique and expressive way of capturing the essence of the natural world.

“I’ve been here in Humboldt since 1968 with the exception of two short absences. I’m really a product of our community. My work is a response to this magical place. I hope in my work for a purity and grace which will take me away from academic reservation. My work should have a life, that is, move while you are not looking. The colors should speak to one another without estrangement. So, if you find a piece of my work in a moldy old cabin, just recall, aren’t the creatures of the forest known for their scats?”
John Wesa

The artist’s studio in McKinleyville is a testament to his deep connection with the land and its inhabitants.

Both Wesa and Christian are members of the cooperative gallery, which showcases the work of 22 artists, including themselves.

A Visit to the Arcata Artisans Gallery

The gallery is located on the Plaza at 883 H St, and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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