As an artist who works in various mediums, Bonnie Davis has worked with her husband, Steve Davis who is also an award winning artist, and William Dentzel III, a fifth generation carousel maker, to complete a full size hand carved, hand painted, hand cranked, working wooden carousel. This unique carousel was made by the Davis' to have a Tennessee Agricultural and Livestock theme. All animals are menagerie animals and painting of animals, rounding boards and shields relate to county fairs in Tennessee and farm theme. Bonnie's Carousel was placed on the National Carousel Registry for working wooden carousels in 1996. Ages of audience that can identify with art form and appreciate its artistic value range from the very young to senior citizens.
Artist lecture will tell students history of carousel and the folk artists that carved and painted them. Students will become familiar with various carving styles and their artistic development over the years. Different painting styles and themes will be discussed. Students will then view Bonnie's carousel, a new machine with new carvings, which were made in the flying horse's style, first shown in America in the 1800's.
