Introduction to Acanthus

This class runs five Wednesdays, February 12–March 12, 6–9 pm each session. 

Norwegian-style acanthus carvings are familiar to many appreciators of traditional Norwegian buildings, wooden ware, and other folk art – but before you can carve it, you must draw it! Join woodcarver Jock Holmen for a five-week class to learn the basic “alphabet” of Norwegian carving, first through drawing and then with chisels and gouges. Understanding how larger decorative carvings can be broken into individual components allows anyone to approach a new project with precision and creativity.

In the first three weeks, students will practice the shapes of various leaves and scrolls through drawing. In the last two weeks, students will adapt these forms to carving simple designs, with some opportunity for further exploration depending on the level. This class will focus on design, shape, and basic building blocks to give students the tools to further their carving practice.

Prerequisites:

• Physical ability: Wood carving requires average hand strength and dexterity, such as being able to open a pickle jar.
• Skill level: Open to all skill levels.
• Ages: Suitable for ages 18+.

Tools and Materials:

A $25 materials fee is payable to the instructor for each blank. Please view and save this materials list for information about the required and optional tools provided by the students.