Original Work by Wheez
The library is pleased to welcome back Rick Wiesner (Wheez) as this month’s artist exhibitor in the meeting room. You may recall Rick’s woodcraft artistry from his 2021 exhibit, and he has returned with his latest creations. Visit the library during December to view his original woodworking designs and pen and ink drawings.
About Rick’s Designs
Rick is a semi-retired engineer who has worked with wood for more than 50 years. He started designing original pieces about ten years ago after seeing a carved whale while visiting Bar Harbor, Maine. “That whale woke something up in me, and I started making my own whales,” explains Rick. “After selling about 40 whales, I started looking around for a new challenge and began making tropical fish.” The subjects for his creative designs grew from there. At the exhibit, you’ll see not only whales and fish but also lighthouses, fairy houses, storefronts, pubs, barns, and more.
Rick uses leftover beams from house construction for his fish pieces; others are made from wine crates, his old fence, and his neighbor’s yew tree. His woodworking process brings out the deep, rich grain of the wood, which is the genesis of the name of his enterprise, “Driftwood Fish Co.”
The exhibit also includes pen and ink drawings – all originals. When in college, Rick was required to take an art class, where he was introduced to this medium. He resumed sketching and drawing recently after a 45-year hiatus.
Rick is often asked how long it takes to make his pieces. He states, “I don’t keep track of time as it passes quickly when you’re having fun, but I would guess a colorful fish takes about eight to ten hours and a whale about four to six hours.” More elaborate designs can take between 20 and 50 hours. A pen and ink drawing generally takes one and a half hours.
To date, Rick has made approximately 700 pieces. He has sold them throughout the region, including Long Beach Island, NJ; Cape Code, MA; Mystic, CT; New Hope, PA; Intercourse, PA; Lamington, NJ; Chester, NJ; Midland Park, NJ; and local nurseries and garden shops in Paramus, Woodcliff Lake, and Westfield.
More than 60 of Rick’s works are on display at the Hillsdale library through December 21.
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