No visit to central Tennessee is complete without experiencing work of the local artists and artisans. Near the town of Liberty, about an hour east of Nashville, I found two sculptors with entirely different views of their art. Both welcome visitors by appointment.

William Kooienga

Whether working in stone, wood or chicken bones, William Kooienga likes large scale projects. Although he spends a great deal of time on outdoor scuilptures, he also creates smaller pieces, which can be seen at his Beech Hollow studio. If you do visit, be prepared for an interesting ride through wooded country. The dirt road gets narrower and narrower and almost disappears just when you reach the parking area.

The studio, surrounded by trees, is literally a stone’s throw from the rustic log house he and his wife, Sharon, built themselves. The couple believes in simple living and eschews many of the items which most of us think of as necessities. Electric lines do not reach the house, but, in an apparent compromise with modern life, a solar powered generator provides electricity.

Beautifully carved wooden tables, bowls and other items are displayed in the studio. If you’re in the Liberty, Tennessee area and want to see some exquisite wood sculpture and get an inkling of what a zero carbon footprint is like, plan a visit after making an appointment by calling 615-536-5567.

Arlene Knaak

In Arlene’s studio, also in the Liberty area, she will happily describe the process of forming clay ino the wall art which is her specialty. A visit is educational as well as fun.

Beginning with the raw clay, Arlene makes her own tiles, decorates them and then fires them. Each part of the process contributes to the overall effect. Favorite decorative items are leaves and stems, although odd machine parts from the electric motor shop next door also find their way onto the clay. Even straw from the firing process leaves its mark.

The small studio contains a number of items for sale. It was fun to wander around and see the different patterns and colors. I liked many of the wall hangings; my favorite pieces were the large mirrors. The photo at right shows part of the studio reflected in one of the richly decorated mirrors

Arlene’s work can also be seen at the Appalachian Center for Crafts. To visit the studio, call 615-563-666 for an appointment. Try to visit both artists on the same day to appreciate the contrasts in material, approach and lifestyle.