Carvers’ Camaraderie

Carvers from around the country gathered together for a woodcarver’s cookout at the International Woodcarvers Congress in Maquoketa, Iowa. Photo by Marc Featherly.

There’s nothing like going to a carving show to recharge your batteries. Although I’m always impressed with the fantastic work on display, it’s the fellowship that really energizes me.

In June I attended the International Woodcarvers Congress in Maquoketa, Iowa. One of the first people I saw was Terry Brasher, whose carved softballs are featured in this issue (page 45) and were pictured in the Coming Features section of the last issue (Summer 2011, Issue 55). Terry dropped everything to take me to see Buell Burns. Buell, Terry told me, saw the photos of her softballs and decided to try carving softballs himself.

Terry was as excited about Buell’s carvings as if she had done them herself. It’s that enthusiasm and support for other carvers that makes attending shows so rewarding for me. Terry was thrilled to have inspired Buell and was delighted to see the way he took her idea to a new level and created something distinctly his own. Buell’s realistic animals are amazing and will be highlighted in the Reader’s Gallery section of our Holiday issue (Issue 57).

The feeling of camaraderie and support was also evident at the third annual woodcarver’s cookout, held at the Woodcarvers Congress and co-sponsored by Woodcarving Illustrated. There was just as much conversation in the food line as there was when people settled in at the picnic tables. I enjoyed chatting with contributors and old friends, and making new friends. Pat Scott, the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League pitcher turned carver, whose work was featured last issue (Summer 2011), happily autographed copies of the article for anyone interested.

The whole experience reminded me what a great community this is—creative, friendly, and supportive. Thanks for your part in it!