Welcome! I’m Beth Ireland. I’m known for my expertise in woodturning and woodworking, and that is what I have taught in schools across the country, to young and old, beginning and advanced, for the past 30 years. But because, at heart, I’m an artist and I follow my curiosities, I am passionate about so many other subjects. My interest in archeology has led me to making crossbows. My love of community teaching led me to instrument making. Graduate school led me to approaching my work more conceptually and from my personal vision of the world. It was that pursuit which uncorked the bottle! The freedom it has given me is so profound that I want to share it with everyone.
Developing your voice builds technical and problem solving skills
I believe that the pursuit of the personal voice expands your skill set because it makes you have to learn skills to realize your vision. Working with the skills you currently have only creates the same piece over and over. Working with just one material limits the possible outcome. The entire world is truly your pallet. Harvesting inspiration from your daily life and the objects and materials around you exponentially expands the possibilities for skill building, problem solving and (we hope) personal fulfillment.
Learning in community is core to my teaching philosophy because everyone brings different skills and perspectives. That’s why I’m launching this project with my friend and colleague artist /filmmaker Gretchen Burger, and I will introduce you to many of the artists and craftspersons I collaborate with and get inspiration from. In the Beth Ireland Studio community, we’ll create ways for you to share what you’re learning with each other. And ultimately, I hope that you’ll take what you learn from me to inspire and teach others.
Learning in community expands resources, ideas and perspectives
What I practice everyday
Be curious.
Go for YOUR Big Idea. We’ll help you get there.
Being creative is not a gift. It's about developing a strategy.
Have no fear because nothing is precious.
You can't work alone. You need a creative community.
“Quotes”
“Beth fostered a real sense of community in the class that made everyday in class richer and more rewarding.”
“Beth is exceptional at challenging people to be creative and not get hung up on certain ideals, to be able to experiment and push one’s self creatively. She has an uncanny ability to simplify complicated methods and patterns and an ability to demystify techniques.”
“Beth's energy/tenacity and generosity of spirit has actually changed my life and that is not hyperbole!”
