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Health & Fitness

Blackburn Woodcarving Show Opens at Group for the East End Southold Office

Woodcarving show by Bennett Sykes Blackburn opens with a reception on Saturday, March 3, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Group for the East End's Southold office (54895 Route 25).

“Urban Wood and the Nigredo”
Opening Reception with Artist on Saturday, March 3rd from 3 to 6 p.m.

A one-of-a-kind woodcarving show by local artist Bennett Sykes Blackburn opens with a reception on Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the at 54895 Route 25 – across from and next to Ace Hardware. Stop by to see this unique show, talk to the artist, meet the Group for the East End staff, and enjoy a glass of wine. The show will remain open to the public free of charge Tuesday - Friday, March 6 - 30.

Blackburn’s sculptures spark the imagination and invite contemplation of three-dimensional forms. Moving around the works gives the viewers constantly changing perceptions of their spatial composition. The articulation of open space is every bit as important as the shaping of solid mass. Some of the pieces are ethereal and light, some geometric and grounded, while others seem animalistic and alive.

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While remaining firmly rooted in the accomplishments of twentieth century abstraction, Mr. Blackburn also finds inspiration in philosophy, current events, and nature. As such, a portion of proceeds from this most recent show will benefit Group for the East End, a nonprofit organization that protects and restores eastern Long Island’s environment (www.eastendenvironment.org).

“Don’t miss this remarkable show,” said Judy Christrup, Group for the East End’s Director of Development. “Our reception is open to the public free of charge because we are thrilled about Urban Wood and the Nigredo. We are opening our doors on March 3 to bring together the artistic and environmental communities of the East End.”

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Many pieces in the show have never before been on public display. “We strive to protect the environment and Bennett is inspired by it. It is wonderful to see ‘found’ wood transformed into beautiful pieces that everyone — regardless of their art background — can enjoy,” said Christrup.

Mr. Blackburn received an Honors degree in Sculpture and Design from Wesleyan University. His work has been shown locally, as well as in New York City and throughout New England.  He is a practicing architectural woodworker and has worked extensively on the restoration and renovation of historic East End houses.

For more information about the show, contact Judy Christrup at 631-765-6450 ext. 215 or jchristrup@eastendenvironment.org.

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