I have big carving goals at Christmas, but never seem to get all those projects done. I have spent increased time in the shop and got a few done. A sunflower for my daughter and a mountain man, personalized for my father-in-law. I have also tried my hand at some more spoon carving. It is hard than I thought, but I am determined to keep at it, as wooden spoons are pretty cool. Here are some pics.
I entered the local art show here at the library submitting two carvings. I did not know what to expect or how it even worked. It was a great experience for sure.
The highlight of the day was having my daughter surprise me and she drove from Flint to come to the art show. She really blessed me more than the show for sure. Have my daughter and wife with me was the greatest.
The Green Man in Cottonewood bark won an Honorable mention and the “Purchase Award”. The Bedford Arts Council, gives 2 of those out. They buy the piece and display it at the library forever I guess. I took the check and ordered more cottonwood bark from BC, Canada. It was fun and I was honored. The fisherman was also entered and will be displayed with all the other art the next 3 weeks.
I have two projects going right now. One is in red cedar, which I love, and wish we had more this far south in Michigan. The other is cottonwood bark from Canada. Only had a couple hours this week to carve. Need to carve more to continue to get better. Tried a different way to do the nose. Also cut the eyes on the cedar with a V and a knife, which is new I usually have just used a knife.
In this guy I tried to put what I have learned into practice. Taking my time and studying the pic more than I carve. It was a fun one to do. I love this bark from Canada. I started working on this in the middle of September. I am a pastor of a larger and active multi-site church (Compelled Church), so I have little windows of time to carve. I do love carving. I am not sure if I am going to put any finish on this or not.
Nate Elarton Wood Sculpting 