As part of our December exhibition, New Works by Jason Ramey, we are pleased to present a collection of objects made by local craftsman, Donald Rasmussen. Viewers will find commonalities between Don’s and Jason Ramey’s work through their shared attention to craftsmanship and the love of wood.
Don was born on November 29th, 1927 on a farm south of Hutchinson and lived with his family until he was fourteen and a half when he went to live on another local farm as a hired hand. At 17 he joined the navy and served two years, most of this time was on an LST in the Pacific during WWII.
Returning home from the War, Don was hired as cabinet maker for Stearnswood and worked for the company for forty one years. It was during this time he began to teach himself the art of woodturning and woodcarving. He enjoys making inlay bowls and carving birds, a best seller for him still today.
At 20 years old, Don married his high school sweetheart, Irene. One day Irene asked 
why he had never made a carving of her. “I went into my shop and carved this little sculpture of her. It went over like a lead balloon. We both had a good laugh”
Irene and Don have been married for 70 years and are blessed with three children, nine grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.
“I have always liked woodworking and woodcarving. I have gone to craft shows for forty plus years. While I am slowing down on the craft shows, I still work in my shop almost every day. I am addicted to the magic of wood.”
The Art Center is pleased to present the work of local artists/artisans in conjunction with the Visual Arts Exhibition Series.
Contact Lisa at director@hutchinsonarts.org to learn more about the Local Spotlight program.
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