NEW COURSES FOR 2010

We have now expanded the range of carving courses to include a two-day course on carving Greenwood masks and grotesques.

You will also have the opportunity to join us for a couple of Introductory days run in connection to the Dorset Artweek's event 29th May - 13th June 2010
Please see course details below.

"Totem poles are associated with the Native americans living in the richly forested environment of the Pacific Northwest coast of the Americas. They were a civilization with an elaborate social and ceremonial structure and with traditions going back to the beginning of time. These peoples understanding of the connections between all living things and their dependence on certain animal and plant species fostered beliefs in the super natural and the spirit world and by telling their stories through dancing, singing and visual expression, they developed richly artistic traditions. "

"The function of totem poles varied among the different peoples, but overall they were historical monuments, or documents of great meaning and value to the cultures that carved them. The poles displayed images that represented a people's origin and lineages, their rights and privileges, their supernatural experiences, their exploits and achievements, their marriages and memorials."

Karen Hansen

To walk with giants you first have to find your own way. We give you the opportunity to step out and experiment with your hands and minds to carve out your own mark in time - People from all corners of the earth have done so since first discovering tools and will do so long into the future. Expressing your connections to life you will be carving a personal story pole for celebration or in memory of anything that is important or fun.

We provide the poles sourced from local woodlands and all the tools you need. Courses will give experienced guidance to both beginners and improvers of most ages.

Based on a brief introduction to the history and symbolism of masks and grotesques we will be working up your own design and set it out on a fresh green log.

Working with gauges and the techniques involved in cutting low and deep relief in the half round, you will come away with a fantastic image telling the story of your imagination.

You will have the opportunity to carve an image of your choice on to a small block of wood. Bring your own ideas or take inspiration from a simple leaf or natural pattern. Wood, tools and refreshments provided.

Time: 2-6pm. Booking essential.

Exploring images and totems that have relevance to your life, history and environment you will be guided through drawing up your design ready for setting out on to your prepared Sweet Chestnut pole. We will work through the techniques involved in carving low and deep relief in the round and you will be instructed in choosing and looking after the tools for the job.

The course is intended to be creative and enjoyable and whether you decide to do simple shapes, carve something from nature or a caricature of yourself - you will come away with an experience in 3D carving and a small pole, which could become a welcoming gesture to your visitor or a garden feature to inspire discussion.

Course details as above

I used to teach women-only workshops in joinery many years ago and would like to see whether there are still women out there who would appreciate the chance to explore their abilities in the dynamics of an all women environment.

(Minimum age 11)

This is your chance to create the family crest or celebration pole by working on a communal carving. You will draw and design the elements of your choosing and transfer the images onto a prepared pole. Depending on how many of you are working together we will either divide the pole into segments for later assembly or work the pole as a whole. You will be instructed in the use of gouges and shown the techniques of relief carving. We will finally make use of colour to emphasise the features in your story.

June 3 & June 6, 2010

Introductory day carving courses / Dorset Artweek
1 day (2 - 6 pm)........................................ 30

July 10/11, 2010 (Sat/Sun)
Pole carving for the family
1 adult + 1 child ....................................... 250

Aug 25/26/27, 2010 (Wed/Thurs/Fri)
Totem carving for women .......................... 225


Sept 2/3, 2010 (Thurs/Fri)
Masks & Grotesques ................................. 180


Sept 24/25/26 (Fri/Sat/Sun)
Totem carving .......................................... 225


Oct 2/3, 2010 (Sat/Sun)
Masks & Grotesques ................................. 180

The three-day courses start at 2pm on the first day.
All other days run from 9.30 - 5pm

Download & print the booking form to sign up.

For more course details please contact Karen Hansen Tel: 01935 83580

Working with wood in carving takes a little patience and perseverance and the intention is to give you a chance to have some serious fun in a relaxed setting. You will be spending your time in a sheltered spot in the lee of the Evershot hills, where we will be working in a lovely tucked away barn. We will provide a simple lunch for your enjoyment and stop for breaks around the fire - keeping the kettle warm.

Gift certificate
Gift certificates for the carving courses are available throughout the year and can be purchased for any amount you nominate. They make a greatly appreciated birthday or Christmas gift for someone - to have a go- and you might even be able to share the enjoyment of the end result.

Custom made courses
We are able to facilitate special requests for individuals or groups and happy to discuss any projects you would like to see happen.