Northern Nevadan Joe Donohue worked in the tech field until his retirement, when he switched gears and discovered a different passion: taking distressed pieces of wood and creating delicate works of art.

Those who are within driving distance of Reno may be interested to learn that this inspirational master craftsman shares his skill by teaching others the time-honored art of wood turning. His classes are on weekend days throughout the year.

Donohue is the only professional woodturner in Northern Nevada who imparts these skills to eager students on a regular basis.

Woodturning is a form of woodworking using lathes (machines that rotate the piece on its axis) to create various objects. Donohue teaches his classes at a facility occupied by the Nevada Woodchucks, where eight lathes are available for students.

Classes are once a month on weekend days from 8:30am-2:30pm and are tailored to meet each student’s ability.

Donohue’s next class is scheduled for April 28 and the class in May is slated for Memorial Day weekend, on May 26. The fee is $85 for a one-day session, and the fee for a private session is $300. To register, or learn more about the classes, call (775) 387.0123.