There is so much to do and see at AAW's Woodturning Symposium, you won't want to miss anything. This list will help you prepare and get the most out of your experience whether you are a first-time attendee or coming back for more.
Attendee Checklist
First-Time Attendee Orientation
Thursday, June 1, 2023
4:30 - 5:15pm
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For a first-time attendee, the symposium could seem overwhelming. The First-Time Attendee Orientation will get you up to speed quickly and help you navigate your first symposium like a pro. You will be introduced to some of the great demonstrators, get to mingle with other attendees and get your burning questions answered.
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01.
AAW Symposium App (Guidebook)
You can get access to the schedule, session abstracts, demonstrator profiles, handouts, and more on the AAW Symposium App. Any changes to the schedule will be updated in the app and posted at registration. The app (Guidebook) is free and easy to download.
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02.
Check in!
Your first stop at the symposium should be the registration desk. There, you can check in and pick up your name tag and AAW Symposium attendee Handout Book which includes rotation schedules, event details, tutorials, Convention Center map, and more.
03.
Contribute to the Success of the Symposium
If you, a spouse, or companion would like to contribute to the biggest woodturning event of the year, meet new people, and support the AAW Symposium, please volunteer. Most volunteer jobs can be done by non registered attendees. The success of every AAW Symposium is due in part to the many individuals who volunteer for event duties.
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04.
Display Your Work in the Instant Gallery
Every registered (paid) attendee is welcome to bring three pieces to display in the huge Instant Gallery. Take your time to enjoy the world’s largest display of turned wood. This nearly 30,000 sq.ft. exhibit will amaze and inspire. With work by turners of every level, this is a great chance to see an enormous variety of woodturnings. New this year – Showcase Louisville and Kentucky’s roots in Bourbon by bringing your own bourbon-inspired woodturned pieces to display in the gallery. A prize will be drawn from the Instant Gallery entries.
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05.
Get a First Hand Look at the Best New Tools and Gear
Visit the largest woodturning tradeshow in the world to test drive and buy some of the best tools and gear available today. Vendors will be doing live demonstrations and have special giveaways.
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06.
Register the Kids for "Learn To Turn: a Woodturning Experience for the Whole Family"
Youth ages 10 to 18 are eligible to register for free hands-on instruction at the AAW Symposium. Space is limited and each registered youth must be accompanied and sponsored by an adult who is a paid registrant for the event. Students will make a variety of projects including a tree ornament, ring holder, honey dipper, twist pen, egg-leidoscope, cupcake box, and yo-yo.
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08.
Donate a Bowl to Help The Local Community
Bring a bowl (or two or three!) to contribute to the Empty Bowls fundraiser–then purchase a bowl to bring home! All profits directly benefit Stormhaven Youth Ranch, a local nonprofit selected by the Louisville Area Woodturners. Stormhaven Youth Ranch rescues horses and provides a safe haven for families with children who are struggling, whether physically, emotionally, or behaviorally. Volunteers from Stormhaven will be available in the Empty Bowls booth to talk with you about their incredible program.
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09.
Support Educational Programs, Donate to AAW’s Silent Auction
Consider donating a turned piece of artwork, woodturning-related supplies, or something else to AAW’s silent auction. Proceeds benefit the AAW’s educational mission and support its educational programs. Drop your donation off in the Instant Gallery/Exhibitions.
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10.
Browse Some of the Best Wood Art in the World
The Gallery and Exhibition Hall is filled with work by turners of every level. This is a great chance to see an enormous variety of woodturnings and some of the most inspirational wood art you will ever see in person. ​
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11.
Have Your Work Critiqued
Want honest, qualified feedback on your work? Sign-up for an Intimate Critique to get constructive feedback from some of the most knowledgeable and respected woodturners, woodworkers, and curators. Register in advance for a timeslot in the Instant Gallery.
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