The first featured artist of the 2025 season at the Wildwood Art Barn is L. Gail Wurtele of Dunbar.

Twenty-five years ago, Wurtele took a course in bark carving, and 15 years ago, she began teaching bark carving to fifth-grade students in Nebraska City. She estimates that she has taught more than 500 students and has gotten a few interested in continuing the art.

“No two pieces of bark are alike,” she said. “Sometimes you start with an idea, but the bark dictates the result.”

When asked what she enjoys most about her art, Wurtele said, “It’s always a surprise when I am finished.” She added that she enjoys taking her tools and bark with her on camping trips or working on a piece during quiet time at home.

Wurtele describes herself as “a Nebraska farm girl with a love of history and the outdoors.” She and her husband raised American Quarter Horses for 25 years. Her family includes two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and “one very busy son.”

When she isn’t bark carving, Wurtele can be found leading tours of the Wildwood Historic House, which she said is very special to her.

“Sometimes you’ll find me transformed into a Victorian lady with stories to share,” she said.

The Wildwood Art Barn is located at 420 Steinhart Park Rd. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Call 402-873-6340 for additional information.