I like working in front of this window.  The directional light creates shadows that honestly reveal form and surface.  I have a small high bench there, too high for heavy work, but perfect for finer bits like cleaning up the necklace around a walnut bowl this week.  The work is closer to the eye and easier on the back.  Of course, when working in front of a window one runs the risk of distraction.

March Robin

I mean, who can continue carving when this fellow shows up wondering what happened to our early spring?

Curiosity got the best of him, and he fluttered from the chair to the window box for a closer look.  I usually have a board across the top with some sunflower seeds in the winter, but I think he’s more of a worm guy anyway.

Getting no answers from me, he left.  The juncos (I think — help me Plymouth birders), came to see what they were missing….

….and found some seeds that had fallen into the bottom corners of the box.

Red Squirrel Sketch

No curious squirrels this week, but when the seeds are out they sit still long enough for a quick sketch.

delicate tracks in the snow

And the birds are even kind enough to leave behind delicate patterns in the snow.

If you find yourself inside, there are worse places to be than in front of a workshop window.

And here’s another good option: the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton, Massachusetts.  This weekend is the opening of their exhibit Living Traditions: The Handwork of Plymouth CRAFT.  There will be many beautiful things to see and explore, including Peter Follansbee’s chest.  It is a real honor for me that they’ve included a couple of my bowls as well.  The exhibit runs through June 25, and I’m looking forward to experiencing it myself in early June.