Woodcarving symposium in Rossland
By RCAC
Rossland’s first Wood Carving Symposium is September 11-13. This unique event brings three local artists to downtown Rossland where three new wooden sculptures will be created for Centennial Trail. The sculptures will be carved live so the community can witness the process, from concept through to fruition. The artists will be working in the open air, in the parking lot next to the Cold Beer and Wine Store at the corner of Columbia Avenue and Spokane Street, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily.
Our sculptors are Columbia Basin Artists: Lars Baggenstos (Rossland), Mike Williams (Rossland/Patterson), and Michael Penny (Fernie)! They will each carve a sculpture with the theme of “Encounters in the Woods”.
Originally we dreamed of having Indigenous, provincial and international artists participating alongside local Columbia Basin artists in a live sculpture carving event with presentations and other activities, sharing some of the history of carving and its influence on cultures around the world. Due to covid-19 and this unprecedented year the RCAC is keeping our first sculpture symposium safe and small. We are extremely lucky to have amazing local sculptors participating.
This project seeks to connect recreation, art, nature, and culture by showing the development of a sculpture from concept to completion and displaying the completed sculptures in a natural, non-traditional, and unexpected environment.
Apublic art piece that is professional, of high artistic merit, with a relatable subject, creates an appreciation for the arts by the general public. The presence of public art demonstrates to visitors and residents that Rossland is not just an active sporting community but also a dynamic arts & culture community that makes art accessible.
The community will be able to watch the creative and technical processes of the artists. After the event, the sculptures will be placed on Centennial Trail for trail users to enjoy year-round.
Special thanks to BC Arts Council, pfeil Swiss Made Carving Tools, the City of Rossland, the Rams Head Inn and Sourdough Holdings Ltd. for your support in making this project happen!
Safety precautions:
Please maintain social distancing when you stop by to watch the carving, wear a mask if you can, and please help our volunteers keep gatherings under 40 people. If you see a group watching the carving, please come back later!
In this time of reopening after COVID-19 we are working to create a safe event for the community. For full safety plans please check out www.rosslandartscouncil.com.
