PAWLEYS ISLAND, SC.- The inaugural Featherin’ our Nests Birdhouse reception and auction – organized by Habitat for Humanity Georgetown – is scheduled for Sunday, June 8 from 4 to 6 PM. More than 150 custom made birdhouses will be on display, up for silent and live auction, at the Parish Life Center of Precious Blood Catholic Church on Waverly Road in Pawleys Island. A highlight of the event will be the sale of Crutches Glory, a remarkable piece of art donated by local artist, Chris Thomas. Proceeds from the event will be used for Habitat for Humanity Georgetown’s Builders’ Blitz 2008.

Thomas, a professional graphic designer and owner of Upriver Studio, contributed the intricate piece from his Plunderware® collection – a line of sculptural art he designs from “found or given objects” … otherwise known as his personal “trash pile collection.” Showcased at Pop's Glass Station on Norman Alley in Conway, his work must be seen to be understood. As with all his Plunderware® designs, Thomas uses odd bits of wood, metal, finials and hardware to create intriguing, three-dimensional works of art.

"When I found out about the Featherin' our Nests event, I knew I had to donate the birdhouse I built last year,” said Chris. “I retrieved my piece from the gallery in Conway where it was already available for sale. I am fortunate it had not sold because I believe this auction is its destiny.”He goes on to explain that the foundation of the elaborate piece is a child-size pair of wooden crutches: “This symbol of support ties naturally with the support Habitat for Humanity offers to the less fortunate members of our community. I am truly proud to help them with my donation.”

Between May 21 and the crucial event on June 6, dozens of birdhouses will be displayed at Applewood’s restaurant in Litchfield and at Augustus and Carolina in Georgetown. The Plunderware® house will take center stage at Augustus and Carolina on Front Street. See other examples of Chris Thomas' Plunderware® at www.upriverstudio.com.