ourd
History:
Gourds are a natural resource that have been considered
a staple in many societies. They are one of the first plants to be cultivated
throughout the world and have been in use for thousands of years. The
gourd is the only plant that experts believe to have spanned the entire
globe. Early man decorated gourds by cutting and scraping images using
the sharp edge or tip of a hot stick. This method of incising and burning
is still being used in some South American countries. Many cultures have
been and are still using gourds for; bowls, vessels, hats, musical instruments
and many other utilitarian purposes. They come in a variety of sizes
and shapes and vary in thickness from eggshell thin to an inch or more
in thickness.
ourd
Growing:
Hard-shelled gourds are members of the squash and pumpkin family. Instead
of having a soft skin like a pumpkin, hard-shelled gourds have a very
hard outer skin. When dry, the exterior of these gourds turn into a wood
like surface.
Gourds are easily grown in most temperate climates, however, there are
specialty farms that plant hard shelled gourd crops specifically for artistic
embellishment. These growers ship their gourds worldwide to artists, craftsmen
and a variety of business's.
ourd
Art:
Today, as was true many centuries ago, artists combine their talents
and perspectives in combination with the gourd shapes and textures,
to create unique works of art from nature. Artists embellish gourds by
painting, wood burning and carving designs into the hard surface.
There are books, web pages, gourd societies and even festivals that celebrate
the gourd.
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