The first clue that Gene Spalding’s wood art is expensive is that you can see his work by appointment only. He lives in the woods on 300 acres and it wasn’t easy to find even with the MAPS app on my phone. However his work is exquisite. The wooden bowls are so thin you are afraid to touch them but he encourages you to touch the wood . The finishes on the wood are beautiful and inspired. Gene is knowledgeable and eager to share his knowledge of his wood working techniques. He is friendly and humble about his talent. Be warned though: A small bowl about 3-4 inches high and approximately 4 inches around is about $200 and it goes up from there. Not that his pieces arent worth the selling price. They are! I wish we could afford to buy one! His work can also be viewed at an art gallery in town but I can’t remember which one.

We stopped in to ask a question about the Bath Houses and the National Park Officer, said, “ There is a tour of the Bath House in 5 minutes, it is free, took 45 minutes and was so informative and enjoyable. The Park Officer was raised in the area and had a lot of history and knowledge. I would recommend this tour to anyone interested in the Bath House History, Lissa was our Park Officer and she did and amazing job.

We went while this place was on the Art in the Park tour; it is a little bit of a drive from downtown, but well worth it. Gene Sparling was very cordial, and encouraged us to touch the art. I was almost scared to, since they are expensive, but they are a joy to experience. Light in weight, and beautifully turned to an exquisite smoothness, they seemed otherworldly. Don't miss the fish table - the ability of Mr Sparling to make a fish appear in this piece of wood is remarkable. I think you need to call ahead when he is not having open house.

This gallery is open by appointment - and we're happy we made one! Gene Sparling turns various woods into hand crafted pieces of art. He showed us his workshop, gallery, and explained the techniques used in perfecting his trade. A fascinating story and well worth the effort to listen to this master craftsman and view his magnificent pieces of art. Will definitely return!!