The David Ellsworth Legacy Project is designed to document and celebrate David’s many contributions to woodturning over more than 50 years.

In addition to helping found AAW and serving as our first president from 1986–1991, David has been an inspiring and tireless teacher and demonstrator, author, innovator, spokesperson, and advocate for woodturning worldwide.

He has also been a personal friend to countless individuals, providing inspiration, encouragement, instruction, advice, and mentorship.

A key Project goal is to assess David's legacy by gathering tributes from the worldwide woodworking community.

The Project will also produce a book entitled David Ellsworth: The Spirit of Woodturning. It will include the story of David's life and career; an essay by distinguished author and craft historian Glenn Adamson; and a gallery showcasing David’s stunning creations.

A special chapter will highlight a selected subgroup of woodturners—from beginners to accomplished professionals—who have been inspired and influenced by David and his work.

Please share your thoughts, thanks, tributes, and stories about David and make a tax-deductible donation to support the Project.

The David Ellsworth Legacy Project was founded in September 2024 by Craig Edelbrock, following a conversation with David and Wendy at the AAW Symposium in Portland, Oregon. Craig retired from an academic career to pursue a second career as a researcher, author, and curator in the field of fine craft, mostly wood.  He has curated more than 15 fine craft exhibits at various venues, published articles in American Craft magazine and in American Woodturner.  His previous books include Emil Milan: Midcentury Master (2018) and Spoons to Stir the Soul: The World of Norm Sartorius (2022). He has served on the boards of the Museum for Art in Wood, the Wharton Esherick Museum, and the Collectors of Wood Art, among several others. 

Craig Edelbrock’s Brief Resume

Instagram: @craigedelbrock

DAN SAAL

Dan Saal plays many roles within the Legacy Project. He has extensive experience as a graphic designer, book and exhibition designer, webmaster, crowdfunding guru, marketing and social media consultant, and publication manager, particularly in the field of art in wood.  Dan has designed and managed successful crowdfunded publishing projects and has been the creative force behind dozens of award-winning books. He is a founder and Creative Director at Wonderfull Design.

Dan’s Website

GLENN ADAMSON

Eminent curator, historian, and author Glenn Adamson will contribute an essay on the creative life and artistic contributions of David Ellsworth in the context of the studio craft movement in America and art in wood internationally.

Dr. Adamson’s many publications include Thinking Through Craft (2007); The Craft Reader (2010); and Craft: An American History (2021). His most recent book, A Century of Tomorrows, was recently published by Bloomsbury.

Glenn’s Website