Tehachapi Treasure Trove to feature James Barrs

April First Friday will feature artist James Barrs, a rock collector extraordinaire. He creates unique expressions in natural stones. He walks the desert finding beautiful rocks. He then polishes, cuts slices and then creates a variety of sculptures using his finds.

When James came across his first piece of petrified wood he was hooked. He walks the desert around Rosamond, California City (behind Castle Rock) and all the way to Barstow looking for interesting rocks. He has been polishing and cutting rocks for about 12 years and seriously selling his pieces at various gem, mineral and craft shows for the last 5 or 6 years. Janes states that he is "trying to share the beauty of the rock that is already there. All I do is civilize it."

Leaving his native Georgia to seek a more productive economy, James moved to Rosamond in 1982 where he met his wife. They were married in 1985 and have three children, two boys and a girl and nine grandchildren. James has worked in several fields since moving to California including aircraft and landscaping. He continues to work as a race track official during car and motorcycle events. James and his wife moved to California City in 2009.

Tehachapi Treasure Trove is located at 116 E. Tehachapi Blvd., right across the street from the water tower in Railroad Park. Hours are daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sundays 11 to 4). Be sure to stop by and see our collection of uncommonly eclectic and unusually unique stuff. Remember we carry an extensive line of art and craft supplies and artist services along with yarn, music and a jewelry studio. For additional information on any of our activities, classes and events, please call (661) 822-6794 or visit http://www.facebook.com/Tehachapi Treasure Trove.