The Ohio Gourd Society Holds an Ohio Gourd Show Annually

The Ohio Gourd Society sponsors an annual show which allows people to view the many types and varieties of gourds, learn about gourds, purchase gourds or gourd seed, visit the many vendors, and to view the displays. Many artists and craftsmen display items they have crafted from gourds.

I have attached two photographs of vessels created from gourds. The one on the first page is a Celtic design and looks like a lovely pottery vessel. Most people would have to be told that it is made from a gourd. The photograph on the second page is of a vessel decorated with an owl and leaves. The owl is very detailed and beautiful. The leaves surrounding the owl are also very detailed and a lovely natural background. Most viewers would also need to be told that this vessel is made from a gourd.

Other items displayed at the Ohio Gourd Society show that I attended included several items covered with beads which created designs such as a white background with several roses and leaves, A gourd that was decorated with a maple leaf design; the leaves surrounded the top of the gourd opening and was cut so that the leaf outline/shape was the top of the vessel. Many of the gourds were not cut open but the design on them completely covered the gourd. Some gourds were made into birdhouses. The creativity of the artists and craftsmen is outstanding.

Seeing the many sizes, shapes and varieties of gourds is fascinating. I was impressed with the small, egg-shaped gourds. Many of these egg-shaped gourds were decorated as Christmas ornaments. They are the perfect size. I also like the large round gourds which make perfect birdhouses. Some of the round gourds were painted to look like and apple. One was painted like a ladybug. Another technique for decoration is wood burning. The designs burned into the gourd look very nice. It almost has a leather look. You can see several of the gourd items in my previous slide show from the Ohio Gourd Show.

The gourds are displayed both in their natural state and some after being decorated. The natural gourds are almost as interesting as the decorated ones. The differences in size, shape, color and texture make each gourd an item of interest. Of course after being decorated the gourds have a whole new look and are very interesting.

The vendors in the outdoor area have many natural gourds for sale. They also have seed so that you may grow your own gourds next year. Several of the vendors also have gourd crafts and other items for sale. It is fun to visit each booth to see what is available.

Musical instruments are even made out of gourds. The day I visited there was a small musical group performing using only instruments made of gourds.

Little did I know of the scope of the gourd?

The Ohio Gourd Society does have meetings, membership and a mission. For more information contact them. The Ohio Gourd Show is announced by the Ohio Gourd Society each year. If you have never attended a gourd show I think you would find it interesting and enjoyable. I know I did.