Hidden away in a beautiful part of Malua Bay, surrounded by picturesque green fields and sparkling dams, lies a treasure trove of scrollwork created by a master craftsman.

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Imre Szedlack’s home is filled with intricate and stunning examples of his art, and range from useful household pieces to large, monumental works.

He and his wife Hannelore are both skilled at the craft, which has its origins in Scandinavia, though Imre is from Romania and Hannelore from Germany.

A builder by trade, Imre migrated with his family to Australia in 1950 at 18 and worked with his father constructing pre-fabricated houses in Sydney before moving to Queanbeyan.

For years he ran a building company, and was renowned for handing over houses that he had completely finished himself, bar the plumbing and electrical wiring, right down to the wall-papering.

The couple moved to Batemans Bay in 1972 but ill-health forced his partial retirement at 50.

About 15 years ago Hannelore’s brother, an intellectual and academic, sent them a simple scrollwork tulip to demonstrate that he had a practical side as well.

From there, they caught the bug and extended it to wood-turning.

Even though Imre has partial use of his right arm and walks with the aid of a cane, he still manages to create the extraordinary works, which begin life as no more than a lump of firewood.

In his well-equipped workshop he then completely transforms that wood into a work of art.

Imre and Hannelore also create fine wood-turned articles, such as coffee services and pots.

Imre is now 77 and is willing to pass on his knowledge and skills, without charge, to anyone who is interested to learn the rare art. He is one of a very few scrollwork craftsmen in Australia, if not the only one.

He says people just love to learn something new.

“Scrollwork and turned pieces make wonderful presents.”

His art gives him a good reason to get out of bed each day but he would also love to have the opportunity to be motivated by teaching people something new.

To contact Imre and Hannelore, call them on 4471 1120.