Really interesting article about a luthier named Freeman Vines. Each of his instruments are uniquely hand-carved and have the unusual distinction of having been made from the wood of a tree used for lynching. It’s a very different perspective on luthiery as a way to make a deeply impactful statement about race relations – something that I, myself had never really considered. Inspiring, really.
‘Hanging Tree Guitars’ Highlights the Worst of Endemic Racism and ‘the Art of Resistance’
Freeman Vines may not be a well known name in the music world, but his work is finally being recognized. In September, the gorgeously illustrated book ” Hanging Tree Guitars,” published by Bitter Southerner in conjunction with the non-profit Music Maker Relief Foundation, and named for guitars Vines carved using wood from a tree used in a lynching, will present the 78-year-old folk blues musician’s work as a luthier, sculpting guitars – each unique and made completely by hand.
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