October 24, 2007 > Gourd Madness Gourd Madness By Mona Shah When is a gourd not a gourd? When it is art! From the wacky to the most finely carved and painted, gourds of every size and shape will be showcased at the Fremont Art Association during a special two week exhibit. Seven women artists have turned to the gourd as a canvas to create some of the most unusual works you will ever see. Participating in the show are Sharon Dwyer, Susan Helmer, P. Kay Hille-Hatten, Judy Oyama Olson, Denise Oyama Miller, Marcia Ritz, and Cindy Sullivan. Gourd art enhances the natural work of nature into something even more unique and inspiring. This artwork is first grown and harvested but then goes through various processes including washing and sanding. According to need, raw material is cut, scraped, carved, burned, dyed, painted, colored or has texture applied. Objects may be glued creating surprises and altered surfaces while some artists prefer to drill holes and weave pine needles, seaweed or other fibers into the walls. Gourds can be waxed and polished, some turned into jewelry, purses, bowls or lamps. In the end, artists have transformed a singular natural work of Mother Nature into an incredible, one of a kind, artist presentation. The first gourd show was a great success and it has returned with a second offering, Gourd Madness II will run from October 27 through November 11 at the Fremont Art Association Gallery. An artists' reception will be held on Saturday, October 27 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Gourd Madness October 27 through November 11 Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 37659 Niles Blvd., Fremont (510) 792-0905 Artists' reception Saturday, October 27 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free