The High Street is not my normal habitat these days. But I came to see Mervyn Mewis’ excellent display of his woody creations at Godalming Museum ‘Out of the Woods’.
I rate Merv’s skills very highly and I think the combination of Trees, Wood and Music is compelling. The exhibition is a great mix of wood shapes and textures. The natural shape, grain and character of the wood plays a big part in Merv’s work. Sadly I only had my phone camera with me so the photos leave a lot to be desired.
The exhibition will stay on at the Museum throughout August. If you are in the Godalming area don’t forget to take a look! There will also be a range of activities and events (mainly Saturday’s) throughout the month based upon Mervyn’s Exhibition, trees, music and wood. Take a look at the museum website here for details – Godalming Museum – Out of the Woods Events.
But as well as a tree surgeon and woodworker Merv is also a talented Luthier and for me the instruments that Merv makes and plays are the icing on the cake. You may have seen or heard Merv playing them with Catherine as a duo – if not they will be playing in Godalming on Saturday 13th August (details on the museum website). They are traditional instruments and you don’t get to see them very often let alone hear them played. I think this one is called a Bowed Psaltery?
The Hurdy Gurdy – I would love to have heard this one being played but unfortunately it was on display in the cabinet.
……..and the hammered dulcimer. Well done Merv an excellent exhibition. But the music didn’t end there because when I spoke to Merv the day before he reminded me to bring my guitar…..oh dear…..
Somehow on the way back to the station I found myself in the Star with Merv and the dulcimer, Catherine and the rest of the Monday evening folk session. As far as I can remember I’ve not played folk music anywhere other than around a campfire at a woody event before. So playing in a pub with other musicians was quite an event for me – a real Coming out of the Woods for me as well. They were very kind and tolerant to put up with me! I really do promise to do a little more practise, and if only I could remember all the words…….
