Art by Nature presented by JJArt and C Gallery - Gords

Gourds

Gourds grow on a vine similar to pumpkins however unlike pumpkins gourds when fresh cannot be eaten. They have a sour bitter taste.

Gourds are the world’s most versatile vegetable; the main purpose on the earth was to be used as water carrying and drinking vessels, bowls and cups. Other uses include swimming aids, buoys, and musical instruments, good omens, nesting boxes, ornaments or gifts.

Gourds are ancient and have been traced back to biblical times; they are still used today in some Third world countries in everyday life.

Gourds are truly amazing and dry out naturally leaving a hard wood like shell with only the seeds left inside.

There are two main varieties Ornamental s and Hard-shells.

Ornamental s: when fresh are the small coloured ones about the size of an apple. They will keep their colour for approximately 1-6 months and the colours range from white, yellow, green, orange and can be striped, warted or variegated. When they start drying your gourd will form spots of mold on the skin and the colour will begin to fade. This is normal and eventually your whole gourd will be covered in mold. Once dry they will last forever.

Hard-shell: gourds are the larger more practical gourds and have a much thicker shell. Their hard-shell makes them perfect to be used as containers and the vessels for crafting. They can be painted, burnt, carved, polished or stained. In fact, anything you can apply to timber can be applied to a gourd. Polished gourds require an occasional buffing with a soft cloth. Once gourds are dry they won’t shrink, rot or change shape.

Gourds are available from C Gallery starting from $20