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PEKIN, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — Wood shavings aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of art, but for Arlen Booth of Pekin, it’s an outlet for his own creativity.
Booth started the hobby about three years ago after renovating a dollhouse and finding a large amount of wood chips left behind.
His 20 works of art include ships as well as churches. His current project is a train. Most of his work is by request from family members or outside organizations familiar with his work. That includes North Dakota State University of Science, which Booth attended. Proceeds from his work will be donated to the university’s scholarship fund. He said he raised about $5,000.
His approach to creating his work is unique. He treats it much like building a house.
“You need to install the frame and understand the heights of the different levels, such as a church or one with a roof. Just size the wood to the desired scale, cut and glue. That’s it , and paint,” he said.
I used oil paint and also drove in the anchors. Sometimes he adds polyurethane to make the metal sheet shine, such as when he created an art piece for his granddaughter’s Jeep.
Booth was a draftsman and detailer during his career at Caterpillar, which he said influenced his art.
“I’ve always had to create and create perspectives of different things. That’s why I can create in perspective view and express depth,” he said.
He says making art is fun, but it’s hard work.
“I don’t have any orders. (Laughs) I don’t really want to be too busy, it takes too much time. It takes 60 to 100 hours to make all of this,” Booth said.
Booth said he would be happy to teach anyone who wants to learn more about his art style. If you are interested, please feel free to call us at 309-256-2650.
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