After long days of shuffling papers in his office, local insurance agent John Tackett attempts to maintain his sanity by drawing, painting and creating whimsical gourd sculptures. His drawings and paintings reflect a more simple place and time. Many of his subjects are taken from recent history and from the old west. His gourd sculptures incorporate weathered wood and rusted barn tin.

A graduate of Arkansas Tech University with a degree in art, John has spent most of his adult life in other pursuits. Art has always been an interest but has been on the back burner. He is now making time to work in his studio and is finding real pleasure in expressing his creativity.

"Reflected in my art is an inherited touch of eccentricity. My folks came from the mountains of north Arkansas and were creative people who made do with the little they had available. I hope to capture a part of their spirit in my work."

Doing much of the construction themselves, John and his wife Deborah have created a truly great place in which to work and play. Their studio sets on an abandoned rock quarry, now a lake, surrounded by pine trees and large boulders. Its warm, southwest motif reflects their love for nature. They hope to make your visit one that you will remember.

Old Timer

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Gourd Sculpture