Nova Scotians interested in the fine craft of furniture making will be able to learn more from a master of the art form.

Sutherland Steam Mill Museum in Denmark, Colchester Co., near Tatamagouche, will offer weekend workshops on Sept.

13 and 14, and Sept. 20 and 21 with renowned Nova Scotia furniture maker Jonathan Otter.

Mr. Otter is well known as both a craftsperson and teacher whose reputation extends beyond Nova Scotia.

“This is a fine example of museums highlighting, sharing and building on traditional wisdom and skills,” said Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Leonard Preyra. “Visitors to Sutherland Steam Mill will get a hands-on learning opportunity to explore Nova Scotia’s craft and design heritage by meeting and working with an accomplished Nova Scotia artisan.”

The unique workshops will teach the basic skills of chair-making with the construction of a shaving horse.

The shaving horse is an ancient woodworking tool combining a workbench with a vise that allows the work while seated. The earliest illustration of a shaving horse dates back to the 15th century. This versatile tool is being rediscovered today. With a shaving horse and the right tools and techniques participants will have everything needed to make chairs, stools and other projects.

“Sutherland Steam Mill is a perfect backdrop to share the experience of furniture making with Nova Scotians who want to explore their creative nature through such a beautiful and functional art form,” said Mr. Otter.

The workshop is largely hands-on and all work is done with hand tools. There is a limit of five participants per workshop which will ensure an intimate experience with lots of opportunity for one on one time with Mr. Otter.

For more information or to register, visit http://museum.gov.ns.ca/ssm/en/home/default.aspx or call 902-657-3016.

Source: Release