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We are please to host a public reception with the artist in attendance on September 20 from 2-4 pm.
About the artist John Groen
Artist Statement: I have always been passionate about designing and creating unique items from wood. My father’s creativity and resourcefulness inspired me as I watched him transform what others considered unusable wood into functional and beautiful furniture. I strive to blend traditional craftsmanship with playful innovation.
My signature material is dyed maple veneer, often used in skateboards. Through experimental bending, layering, and lamination, I combine these colourful sections with various other wood species to create bowls, charcuterie boards, tables, and wall art. Sustainability is at the core of my work. Each piece is intentionally crafted from repurposed or leftover wood, adding history and character to every creation. My craft is about giving old wood new stories—stories that you can eat from, set items on, or proudly display on your walls.
Artist Bio: John is a lifelong learner and community-oriented maker who has honed his craft through practical work experience. He is a former woodworking teacher and holds a cabinet-making certification from SAIT. His skills have been enriched by collaborating with fellow members at his local makerspace, as well as through personal exploration and experimentation. Operating under the name Mient Woodworking, John has been a member of the Alberta Craft Council since 2022. He has also been a part of Fuse33 Makerspace since 2018 and is a member of Hand Made Here YYC, a collective of local artisans in Calgary.
Reception: Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 2 – 4 pm
Alberta Craft SPOTLIGHT – cSPACE – Marda Loop, 2nd floor, 1729 – 29 Avenue SW, Calgary
The parking lot and accessible entrance are off 29 Avenue. Street parking is available free of charge around the building.
This SPOTLIGHT exhibition runs through September 13 – November 1, 2025.
