Handmade Flutes
tune in ages of
antiquity
by Shawna Graves
Artist couple Bob and Jodie Freeman make one-of-a-kind flutes,
that are both functional and decorative, out of their Marathon,
Texas-based studio. Bob, also a fine landscape photographer, crafts
the flutes from aromatic cedar, poplar and black walnut woods. For
special orders, he considers many variables, including hand size,
musical experience, dexterity, and travel or backpacking plans for use
of the flute.
Bob learned how to make flutes over 30 years ago from
archaeologists who based their designs on ancient instruments
uncovered at archaeological excavation sites. He has since refined the
design, and Jodie adds an element of Southwest spiritualism through
her embellishments. She makes fetishes—hummingbirds, bears,
birds and other critters—that adorn the instruments. Some of the
fetishes are purely decorative, and others play a role in tuning the
sound.
Jodie is also an avid painter, quilte r and knitter. e couple can
often be found working in their woodshop together, each at their
own scroll saw. “If I sell the flutes, great. If I don’t, that’s fine too. It’s
an excuse for us to work together,” Bob remarked. eir handiwork
can be found at local craft shows throughout the year, where Bob
demonstrates the musical beauty of his flutes, by playing a few songs.
Learn more at www.tworavensflutes.com or call 214-505-9390.
BIG BEND GALLERIES AND ARTISTS / 2018 7