Wood Carvers Competition

r The Twelfth Annual Wood Carvers Competition sponsored by the Utah Valley Woodcarvers Club was held October 6 and 7, 2017 at the Spanish Fork Veteran’s Memorial Building.  With 127 entrants, it was an amazing exhibit of craftsmanship. The entries were judged in five categories; Youth for those under 16, Novice with 2 years or less experience, Intermediate, Advanced with past winning experience, and Expert for those who have won 10 or more First Place ribbons or 3 or more Best in Advanced Division. The subject classification included; Birds, Fish including Whales and Dolphins, Reptiles and Amphibians, Animals, Human Sculptures, Walking sticks and Canes, Mythical/Religious, Special types, Miniatures, and a Special Types classification.

The display room was arranged by rows of display tables each denoting a skill level category. They also had a wood burning display, live wood carving demonstration, and a Christmas tree with small carved decorations. The real attraction was the stunning display of one of a kind wood art. Every item was absolutely beautiful. Hours could be spent studying the details of each. One item particularly notable was a replica of an old steam locomotive that was approximately two feet long and made up of many pieces. A fish ringed by the bark of a tree made from one piece of wood also illustrated skillful craftsmanship. The Best of Show winner was titled “Indian Princess” created by Mary Dame.

The goal of the Utah Valley Woodcarvers Club (UVWC) is to promote and increase interest in and application of woodcarving. The club meets on the second Thursday of the month with refreshments and meets and greet at 5:30 p.m. and the meeting starts at 6 p.m. The meetings are held at Treeline USA, 1221 E 1120 S, Provo. For more information contact the club president Gary Heaton at (385) 329 5442.