Wings in Wood

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Bird Sculptures on Display at Tijuana Estuary Visitor Center Bookstoreleastternhamm_compressed for web

TRNERR bird walk docent, Kevin Hamm, captures the beauty of some of our local threatened birds and gives us a glimpse at their lives. Whether plunge diving or singing, the birds have been meticulously crafted giving fine detail and allowing for an up close experience with birds difficult to see in the wild. The realism of the sculptures is a culmination of Hamm’s passion for birds which was fostered through his volunteer work at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve. Through numerous hours spent observing and photographing these birds, Hamm merges his skills in woodworking to bring attention to the fine details of these birds and strives to pass along his passion and appreciation for them. Hamm explained that “as a volunteer docent at the Tijuana Estuary, I have developed a true appreciation for birds and hope to pass this along through my talents in woodworking.

Kevin Hamm at appreciation party with Volunteer Coordinator Danielle Murphy.
Kevin Hamm at appreciation party with Volunteer Coordinator Danielle Murphy.

Kevin Hamm has 20 years’ experience in the woodworking industry. He is a self-taught wood carver and painter who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Theology. He recently exhibited works at the San Diego County Fair where he won 4th prize. You can join Hamm at his 3pm first Sunday bird walk at the Visitor Center each month.

The beautiful pieces will be on display from July 8 – August 19, 2016 in the bookstore. They are available for sale along with his bird photography and the proceeds allow the Friends of San Diego Wildlife Refuges to support environmental education at the Reserve. To see more of his artwork or to contact Kevin Hamm please go to his Wings in Wood Facebook page.