Deer Isle
J. Fred Woell, 81, died from complications of pneumonia, peacefully at home on April 2, 2015. He was born in 1934 in Evergreen Park, IL, the son of James and Betty (Hill) Woell.
“This humble man has always avoided any label for himself”. (Carl Little)
Fred described himself simply as someone who liked to make things. He was a Master Metalsmith and a Maine Master, known for using political and social commentary in the creation of jewelry. He was renowned for his found object assemblages, reflecting and critiquing the throwaway culture of late 20th century America with his characteristic wry humor. He found continuity and solace in nature and held a great respect for the environment, and was proud of his time as an Eagle Scout.
“Fred’s influence, both as a teacher and as an artist, have been subtle but profound” (Claire Sanford)
A teacher of rare generosity, he taught at Boston University, Swain School of Design, Haystack and SUNY/New Paltz. His works are in the permanent collections of the American Craft Museum, LACMA, Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian, Contemporary Museum of Design, N.Y.C. and the Hermitage in Russia; with a current retrospective at the Nation from SWAG, and 2012 Florida Society of Goldsmiths Hall of Fame award. He held MFAs from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, University of Wisconsin, and Cranbrook Academy.
Fred is survived by his wife, Patricia Wheeler and her three children; his brother, Stanley Woell and wife Karla, and their extended family.
A memorial service will be held in the summer at the Reversing Falls Sanctuary in Brooksville.
Gifts in Fred’s memory may be made to the Deer Isle Memorial Ambulance Corps, P O Box 387, Deer Isle 04627 or to CERF (Craft Emergency Relief Fund), P O Box 838, Montpelier, VT 05601
Arrangements by Jordan-Fernald, 49 Main Street, Blue Hill 04617