Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome — or PANS for short — is a condition characterized by a sudden onset of severe neuropsychiatric symptoms in children, such as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors, often following an infection. When Stephen and Angela Wilkers’ eldest son was diagnosed with the condition, life changed. Juggling two full-time jobs while caring for a medically fragile child was simply too much, so Stephen left his career in the outdoor industry to become a stay-at-home father. But he couldn’t leave the woods, mountains, and rivers behind entirely. Looking for a creative outlet, Stephen began burning and painting nature-centric scenes on pieces of wood. Soon enough, the hobby evolved into Naturewerks, a custom woodworking venture. According to the company’s website, Naturewerks was “created out of a desire to showcase a love of the outdoors, adventure, and nature in a way that utilizes natural resources and a creative spirit.” This fall, Stephen will present new works at the FW Gallery at Woolworth Walk. He will be joined by Angela, who makes wearable art from wood offcuts when she isn’t working as a marriage and family therapist. The show runs through late August.
Stephen and Angela Wilkers: August 1-30; Opening Reception: Friday, August 2, 4-6pm
FW Gallery at Woolworth Walk / 25 Haywood St., Asheville