Registration for this workshop opens on Wednesday, September 3rd at 9 AM.
Our popular spoon carving workshop integrates learning about the trees on the land around us with spending time carving your very own project. For beginners and intermediate carvers alike, we aim to inspire wood carving interests in an immersive and inclusive way. You'll be introduced to the ecology of the land, tree anatomy and hand tools safety and their uses. You'll learn how to carve your own spoon using a knife and a variety of hand tools.
Join us at the Guelph Outdoor School to learn together from the land and be with good company whilst being led by knowledgeable and passionate instructors. We'll provide wood for our projects. You are welcome to bring your own tools and any projects you might be working on. Instructors will have some tools to lend, and tools are also available for purchase at registration checkout.
In this workshop, you can expect to:
- Learn about the trees in the ecosystem and tree anatomy
- Learn to work with local wood varieties in a sustainable and ethical way
- Gain an introduction to knife use and safety, introduction to hand tools and an axe
demonstration
- Enjoy open-ended spoon carving time
- Learn tips for carving in a way that will prevent fatigue and damage to your body
- Learn in an inclusive, anti-oppressive space where learning is open to everyone
Session price: $105 +HST. If cost is a barrier, please see our Economics for a Changing World page for sliding-scale and mutual aid options.
Good to know: This workshop takes place at the Barber Scout Camp, across the river from GOS’ Stone Road site. Time may be spent outdoors processing wood, and indoors in the comfort of the Scout building, depending on the weather.
Meet Your Instructors
David Wilson and Annie Sanassian are experienced and passionate carvers who have been inspired by people, nature, trees and wood to be the carvers they are today. They love spoon carving, they love the land and are grateful to get to teach others about carving wood and nature immersion. Their collaboration will give you access to a one- of-a kind carving experience filled with a wealth of diverse information. They believe that carving is a hands-on experience that is meaningful for the mind, body and soul.
