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Chainsaw Art School Helps Launch Carving Businesses
If you've got an artistic bent and like chainsaws, you might consider going to the Wisconsin School of Chainsaw Carving, the only state-licensed "chainsaw artist" school in the U.S.
Doris Johnson, school administrator, says her husband, Brian, a chainsaw carver for 13 years, teaches unique scientific methods
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Chainsaw Art School Helps Launch Carving Businesses WOODLOT EQUIPMENT Chain Saws 29-3-6 If you've got an artistic bent and like chainsaws, you might consider going to the Wisconsin School of Chainsaw Carving, the only state-licensed "chainsaw artist" school in the U.S.
Doris Johnson, school administrator, says her husband, Brian, a chainsaw carver for 13 years, teaches unique scientific methods to achieve not only artistry in wood but also financial success.
Brian was also a taxidermist. He now owns and operates a taxidermy supply company (www.revolutiontaxidermysupply.com). Doris says it fits well with chainsaw artistry because taxidermy requires a lot of body sculpture.
The weeklong chainsaw classes are held every spring and fall on 11 acres in Hayward, Wis. There's a small indoor classroom while the outdoor carving facilities consist of six 10 by 10-ft. carving booths. Brian spends most of his time either teaching or assisting students with their projects.
"This is more of an aggressive art. You get in there and do the basic work and then spend time detailing," Doris says.
By the end of the week, students complete a standing bear and an eagle standing on rocks.
The three-year-old school accepts between three and four students for the course on a first come, first serve basis - after prospective students purchase and view two videos about safety and basic chainsaw cuts.
Students come with a variety of backgrounds. Some are already in the "wood" industry and want to expand their capabilities while others are farmers or people just fascinated by the artwork.
Doris says most graduates become self-employed or do it as a part-time business or hobby.
She says that while prices for pieces vary according to size and detail, they have some pieces that sell for $350. One extremely detailed piece of a bear holding a salmon sells for $4,500.
The course costs $1,500 plus tools, equipment and room and board. Students can camp out or stay at a local hotel.
Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Wisconsin School of Chainsaw Carving, 13250W State Rd. 77, Hayward, Wis. 54843 (ph 715 634-8877; email: info@chainsawcarvingschool.com; website: www. chainsawcarvingschool .com).
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