Some artists sculpt; other artists paint. To be a master carver of birds, one has to excel at both sculpting and painting. Consider how one might turn a block of wood into realistic looking feathers, and you will begin to understand the multiple talents required to make wood become a bird.

This month, several birds, including a pileated woodpecker, are highlighted in this month's Stable Gallery's Art show. The gallery's June display ranges from a dress composed of children's books' pages to abstract whirling paintings, wool rugs with striking geometric patterns, to one of a kind silver jewelry.

The bird carver is Ed Hawkes of Bar Harbor. Ed began his career teaching building trades to high schoolers. With a passion for birds, Ed now spends his time volunteering in Acadia National Park, watching birds, and turning his observations into carved birds. Ed's goal is to make the birds "so life like that people want to touch them". This representation includes the attitude and personality of the bird, which are only possible to know through careful observation. Ed creates birds that interest him although he will create birds on commission.

The Stable Gallery has a wide ranging display of artwork to appeal to all types of art enthusiasts. The display changes monthly on the second week of the month. Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., the Gallery is at 26 Water Street, Damariscotta, two blocks to the east off Main Street. For more information, check out the gallery's website at www.stablegallerymaine.com or call 207-563-1991.