Six lucky participants got to learn the basics from master woodcarver Volker Steigemann this month.

Four children and two adults gathered to woodcarve for two hours each time over a series of three Saturday mornings. They began by learning how to carve a face into a block of wood, as well as safe knife techniques.

By the end of the workshop, a few were beginning to sculpt creatures of their choice. One participant said the process was very meditative, and all clearly enjoyed the instructor’s stories and wealth of knowledge.

Students learned enough to carve at home in between classes and after the workshop finished. Photo by Anastasia Avvakumova.

Steigemann began his sculpting career in his native country of Germany as a teenager, first learning from family members and then going on to formal education. He’s been a resident of Cortes Island since 1980, and is renowned for his skills and creations. 

This particular workshop was funded by several local organizations through the MicroGrants for Neighbours program, and the only fee to each participant was $20 for a whittling knife.

Listen to the CKTZ News story below: