Wendell Gilley facts for kids
| Established | 1981 |
|---|---|
| Location | 4 Herrick Road Southwest Harbor, Maine |
| Type | Art Museum |
The Wendell Gilley Museum is a special place in Southwest Harbor, Maine. It celebrates the amazing art of Wendell Gilley, a talented artist who carved lifelike birds from wood. Gilley was also a passionate bird watcher who lived on beautiful Mount Desert Island. This museum opened its doors in July 1981, sharing his incredible work with everyone.
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Discover the Wendell Gilley Museum
This museum is a fantastic spot to explore the world of wood carving. It shows how artists can bring nature to life using simple tools and wood. The Wendell Gilley Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the art of bird carving.
Who Was Wendell Gilley?
Wendell Gilley was born in 1904 and grew up loving birds. He spent many hours watching them in their natural homes. This love for birds inspired him to start carving them from wood. He began by making small, two-inch wooden birds. These tiny sculptures were so good that a famous store, Abercrombie & Fitch, even sold them! Gilley's carvings became known for their incredible detail and realistic look. He captured the unique beauty of each bird he created.
What Can You See at the Museum?
When you visit the Wendell Gilley Museum, you will see hundreds of Gilley's amazing bird carvings. Each one is a masterpiece, showing different types of birds in various poses. You can see tiny songbirds, majestic eagles, and graceful waterfowl. The museum also features carvings by other talented artists. One special collection includes miniature waterfowl by A. Elmer Crowell. Crowell was a famous carver from Cape Cod who actually inspired Wendell Gilley to start his own carving journey. It's a great way to see how different artists interpret the beauty of birds.
Learning and Fun Activities
The museum is not just about looking at art; it's also a place for learning! It often hosts workshops where you can try wood carving yourself. You can learn about different bird species and the art of observation. These activities help visitors understand the skill and patience needed to create such detailed sculptures. It's a wonderful way to connect with nature and art at the same time.
