The gourd inspires Wisconsin artists MILWAUKEE, WI (wuwm) - For centuries the resilient, almost wood-like plant has been fashioned into long-handled dippers and tools. Now artists and crafters around the world embrace the gourd. They convert them into everything from birdfeeders to intricately designed bowls. A group of gourd growers and art suppliers recently traded ideas with gourd artists at the Waukesha County Expo Center. WUWM's Susan Bence soaked up a little knowledge about, what appears to be, their passion.

Artists Sandy Bulgrin, Lynn Quinn and Earlean Kurtin. Gourd grower Larry Haas. Music from the Apple Jam Band.

Gourd information www.americangourdsociety.org/WIGS/

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