The Explorers Club grew out of Lewis' unhappy experiences with art festivals. But I went to two art festivals and absolutely hated it, being outdoors and all that travel and expense. I wanted to work by myself and stay in art, both as a creator and as a purchaser of beautiful things. My work is much better now than when I was younger. If you've seen it somewhere else, I don't want to have it here.
Seniors seem to be particularly adept at filling that bill.
Among the unique items at Explorers Club, a hand-built canoe by Dr. Rodney Million, retired oncology chief of staff at Shands Memorial Hospital in Gainesville, stands out. Unfortunately, it won't be here much longer. But we'll also have other cedar-strips boats from area boatwright Michael Lampman for about the same price. We cut our own trees, mill our own lumber . . . Because of Lee's enthusiasm and interest.