Conference host and talented WEN artist, Tony Drehfal stars in this article from Rhinelander’s WXPR by Katie Thoresen.
Join the group for a public opening reception of the Wood Engravers’ Network 5th Triennial Exhibition and Wood Engraving Masterworks, Drehfal’s personal collection of engravings he’s acquired over the last two decades on Thursday June 25, 4-6pm
“I can’t get a very big ego, because I look at things and go, ‘Wow, I got a lot to learn.’ It’s a lifelong trade, just about everyone in our group freely share their technique and how they do things, which is really nice,” said Drehfal. “Some of the other fine arts people have their secrets. There’s no secrets with wood engraving. Some of them, they’ll even show you, knowing that you won’t be able to do what they’re doing anyway.” “If you come visit any time during the week, you’ll see us with our tools and our box engraving [wood],” said Drehfal. A press and work space will be available during the workshop. Wood engravers will be working on projects throughout the week at ArtStart in between different presentations and field trips they have planned.
There are over 180 members of the Wood Engravers’ Network. At least 16 people from across the US are expected to attend this week.
The open reception for the exhibits is Thursday June 25th from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The collections will be on display at ArtStart through August 8th, 2026.
