Introduction

These classes are an introduction to carving with tradtional NW carving tools - adzes and curved knives. Steve will show you the techniques for efficient carving of sculptural forms using these tools. You can make adzes and knives you'll have made in the Making NW Carving Tools class.

The classes will focus on making a Nuu Chah Nulth (Nootkan) style mask from a fresh block of green alder. We'll be sourcing the blocks specially for the class and Steve will be rough shaping the blocks prior to the class.

Class Description

In 2012 we are offering two classes:

• Introduction to Mask Carving and Carving Techniques (June 8-10, 2012)
• Carving a Nuu Chah Nuulth Mask (August 27-31, 2012)

Each class will cover:

• History and overview of NW Mask Carving
• Proportions and layout of Mask Designs
• Preparation of carving blocks
• Adze carving techniques
  • Hogging off material
  • Creating forms
  • Creating surface texture
• Knife Carving Techniques
  • Creating surfaces
  • Carving details
  • Texturing surfaces
• Traditional paints and decorative elements

The Carving a Nuu Chah Nuulth Mask is a five day class that allows you a deeper exploration of carving and decorative  techniques, combined with a good likelihood that you will complete the mask by the end of the week. You are not restrained to a Nuu Chah Nuulth style but that is a good starting point fo beginning carvers.

Tools:

At a minimum you will need to the following carving tools to participate in this class:

• Straight edge elbow adze
• Curved edge elbow adze
• Curved traditional carving knife
• Straight traditional carving knife

You can purchase these tool from various vendors or you can make them in the Making NW Carving Tools class.

If you do not have tools - we may have some loaner tools but please enquire before registration.

Carvers who already own tools are encouraged to bring their carving kit with them. The discussions and history of various tools are great fun.

More about this class

• Class Notes
• Blog Entries

Prerequisites

This is a class for both beginning and experienced carvers. The small class size and duration of the class allow plenty of one-on-one time with Steve. Steve can develop your skills further regardless of your current skill level.

We're expecting a number of skilled carvers to treat this class as a weeklong master class and celebration of NW Coast Arts. 

Class Information and Registration

Please read our What to Expect page for general information about the School.

Please also read our Registration Policy.

Coming Classes:

When you click on the Register link you will be able to register for the class or, if the class is full, sign up for the wait list.