Dating back to the early 16th century, marquetry is the art of applying thin pieces of wood veneer to form decorative pictures, patterns, and designs. Traditional marquetry recreates a notable image with wood and can be found on objects such as bespoke furniture, decorative boxes, wall panels, and flooring. But for Robert Bruce Weston, marquetry becomes the centrepiece and driving inspiration for his artmaking. 

 

    From November 7-22, Weston’s large-scale wood art will be exhibited here at the Peninsula Gallery. Robert’s marquetry work includes finely crafted scenes of local icons — such as the Breakwater Lighthouse, the Lewes canal, and the barn on Cave Neck Road — majestic landscapes, detailed architecture, and abstract imagery. His pieces, in contrast to classical marquetry, lean towards non-representational, with some surrealism thrown in. This allows viewers to have a more personal interpretation of Weston’s work, asking them to perceive each wooden composition through their own artistic eye. Along with the artwork, an educational display on how these intricate works are made will accompany the showcase.   

 

    An opening reception will be held on Saturday, November 7, from 5:00 to 6:30 pm, which is free and open to everyone. Weston will be in attendance, giving patrons the opportunity to mingle with the artist. Join Robert and the gallery staff for an evening of fine art and complimentary food and drink.

 

    Robert Bruce Weston is a master cabinetmaker who has retired to Delaware to pursue his love of art. During 40 years of on-the-job training working for and with many famous architects in the New York Metropolitan region, he absorbed much from their compositional abilities and design expertise. In retirement, he traded city living for the quiet life in Milton and has settled into making paintings using wood veneer marquetry.

 

    Weston exhibits at shows across the Delmarva Peninsula and has an in-home gallery, which is open by appointment only. He maintains memberships in the American and British Marquetry Societies, the Biggs Museum's Delaware by Hand, and the Rehoboth, Ocean City, and Maryland Federation Art Leagues.