RandyOsborn

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Art Exhibit- featured artist Randy Osborn

Randy, a Friends member since 2018, volunteers in a number of community programs. Throughout 30+ years working with children and families, including 11 years in residential camps, Randy Osborn's artwork grew out of a love of nature, discovery of unique natural materials, and elaboration of cultural artforms and creative outdoor education.

VisionCatchers, his 3-D version of Dreamcatchers, combine traditional methods, materials, and symbols with advanced designs and complex beading patterns. In camp programs he used them to help children represent and clarify personal values and stories. Some VisionCatchers were 6 feet in diameter and incorporated Earth globes, God's Eyes, personal writings, and beaded feathers mounted by dozens of campers. In 2015, he worked with Touch of Nature staff to build the world's largest Dreamcatcher of its time.

In 1998 he began experimenting with caricature carvings done with large avocado seeds. His Avocado Shamen are the primary result of this experiment. The 'Heads' include colorful feathers, earrings, and even unicorn horns, and are mounted on color-wrapped 'Beaver Toothpicks' from local lakes. They are seen chanting to the Great Spirit in one-of-a-kind expressions.

In 2000 he discovered the invasive Oriental Bittersweet vine that is so prevalent in the area. The characteristic spiral of this vine grows in an endless variety of twists and turns. When whittled, the wood reveals a vanilla-white layer beneath an attractive bark covering. As an outdoor educator, Talking Sticks were a common tool for programs around the campfire, and The Shawnee Talking Wand Project came out of this connection. Talking Wands are still used in many schools and camps to help focus dialogue and elevate shared expression within groups while teaching about native and invasive plants. He has completed the Invasive Eradication Training at Giant City State Park and taken part in invasive removals in the park over the years.

Randy Osborn

Art