While we’ve got plenty of high tech creativity on hand for our first ever Tampa Bay Mini Maker Faire, we’ve also got some great Makers of Fine Art!
Joining us as a Commercial Maker is Bert Winkler of OFC Custom Rods, Plugs and Jewelry, from Crystal River.
Bert uses a variety of raw natural materials to create spectacular art to wear and use. TBMMF recently chatted with Bert about his work.
TBMMF: Tell us about what you Make.
OFC: I have always been inspired to create art. As I progressed with my artwork I
chose creations that had functionality. Fan pulls, stain glass night lights, fishing lures, fishing rods and jewelry made from the elements. Sea creatures such as Abalone (Mother of Pearl) and Stone Crab claws and Scallop shells made into necklaces.
TBMMF: What makes OFC art unique?
OFC: I have incorporated new techniques such as marbleizing paint with epoxies and using Bamboo created what I believe is the only bamboo lures for fishing that I know 
of.
Every piece I make is a “one of a kind” and they are all handcrafted by me. The fishing rods start with a blank of graphite and I design the Cork handles and the placement of the guides then threading the guidesand painting is all by hand.
I make many fishing plugs from woods I have around the property as well as friends donating wood for the cause. I use Eastern Red Cedars, Cypress, Cherry and Oaks. I grow Bamboo and use select pieces for my specialty Bamboo plugs. The hooks I use are the finest and made in America.
TBMMF: What do you love best about what you do?
OFC: I believe I have a gift to be able to take raw materials sometimes considered trash or discarded items and turn them into creations of awe and beauty. They may be adorned or used as tools to catch fish or light your way in a dark world or even control your paddle fans light or speed.
My intentions are to make people happy and create the unusual one of a kind items that are hard to find and stimulate the imagination.
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It certainly makes us at Tampa Bay Mini Maker Faire happy that you’re joining us, and we’re definitely inspired by what the imagination of a fine artist can make of wood, shells and glass! Join us March 31 to see artist Bert Winkler at work and to appreciate his marvelous creations first hand.
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