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WEIMA June 2023 Leader
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Georgian College students show their best work at exhibit

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Photos: Doug Crawford/Georgian College
Solomon King will have a few pieces, including an end table and mallet, in Georgian College’s sixth annual Student Cabinetmaking Exhibit on Aug. 7 - 8.


The pieces displayed in Georgian College’s sixth annual Student Cabinetmaking Exhibit are as unique and diverse as the students themselves.
The Cabinetmaking Techniques students will display their work starting Tuesday, Aug. 7 at the Helen and Arch Brown Centre for Visual Arts at the Barrie Campus.
The grand opening takes place between 7 and 9 p.m.; the exhibit continues Wednesday, Aug. 8 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 
“We have a really diverse community of students in our program and that was one of the appeals for me,” said Bethany Debassige, 21.
“There are students who came directly from high school and then a number of others from all ages and walks of life. We have retired military veterans and a lot of moms. The age range probably goes from about 18 to 65, maybe even more. I think that's what makes it such a good program.”
Debassige loves to work with her hands – a skill she picked up from her father. “My dad works with all kinds of wood and stuff at home. He’s kind of a Jack of all trades, but master of none,” she laughed. “When I was a little girl we would build doll houses and things like that together. So I’ve always had a love for wood and building.”
Solomon King, 48, is a Red Seal certified stone mason and sculptor. He enrolled in the program because he wanted to transition his carving skills into wood as an artistic medium to create one-of-a-kind pieces.
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the detail-oriented methodology of cabinetmaking that I can incorporate into my art-making processes,” he said.
“After I graduate, I want to continue to work on building my portfolio in woodworking and building.”
Both Debassige and King say their instructors have been phenomenal. They, and other students will be on hand to discuss their work, some of which will be for sale.
Cabinetmaking alumni attend the exhibit every year because it’s a perfect opportunity to support the program and chat with students about potential employment opportunities. Some students are hired on the spot. Door prizes and giveaways will also be offered.
“The exhibit is such a delight,” said Professor Lynn MacKinlay.
“To watch students hone their craft throughout the year and proudly display their work for everyone to see is very gratifying. We have a strong group of dedicated and skilled students this year and I encourage everyone to come to the exhibit and enjoy the fruits of their labour. It’s also an opportunity for visitors to check out the program at the same time. We still have a few spots available for September.”
This is just one of many opportunities Cabinetmaking students have throughout the year to develop and showcase their skills, she added.


Bethany Debassige is one of several students who will be exhibiting their work in, in Georgian College’s sixth annual Student Cabinetmaking Exhibit on Aug. 7 - 8.

 

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