Chainsaws are usually associated with cutting down trees, but how about using them to create beautiful works of art? Dave Harper, a local resident, has a unique talent of taking a simple log and turning it into a masterpiece.
Dave, his wife Virginia and three children reside in Bazetta, Ohio, where he was born and raised. Dave is employed by Don Wartko Construction, as a heavy equipment operator and enjoys chainsaw carving as a hobby. His love for woodworking started years ago at Lakeview High School, where he enrolled into the Carpentry program at the Trumbull Career and Technical Center.
In 2011, Dave attended a festival where various chainsaw carvers were demonstrating their skills and he became very intrigued. “I went home and started watching YOUtube videos to gain more understanding on general carving techniques and safety. I decided to give it a try, and carved my first bear and continued from there.”
As a self-taught carver, Dave has created and been commissioned for bears, eagles, wolves and tree faces over the years. He noted that he generally prefers to use pine wood for his carvings, however he will use what’s available at the time. Dave does not use any stencils and can look at a photo and replicate the image into the wood, which is a true talent, in itself. As any hobby, tools are required to create any work of art. In chainsaw carving, having the right instruments are essential to achieve the desired look. Dave started with one chainsaw and that has quickly grown into nine. He also has a variety of grinders and torches to help enhance each of his creations. He does not typically use any paint, unless it is requested by the client. “I like to leave the wood in it’s natural state. To get the darker shades in the wood, I burn with a torch and then use brushing techniques to get the color I want.” Upon completion, he applies a sealer to the wood for protection allowing the colors to really stand out. “When I’m outside creating a piece, people driving by typically slow down to watch. Dust is usually flying everywhere.”
For the past six years, Dave has been attending the Ridgeway Chainsaw Carvers Rendezvous, located in Ridgeway, PA. This week long chainsaw carving event, brings carvers from across the nation and around the world to showcase their chainsaw art. He really likes the event and what it has to offer. Each year, Dave sets up a booth and carves for others to watch and learn. This event includes various educational seminars ranging on topics that include, safety, marketing, carving techniques, tools and more. Last year, Dave’s daughter, who is also an artist, participated in the festivities and they enjoyed some creative father-daughter carving time alongside one another. The atmosphere at this event “buzzes” with creative energy for all to enjoy, and Dave certainly does! Depending on the piece of art, items at this festival are sold in the range of $25.00 up to $2500.00
Dave has created numerous pieces over the years. “To carve a small bear, it usually take about one hour.” Depending upon the design and hours that are involved, his prices range from $50.00 to $1500.00. “My favorite piece that I created was a dog and two pheasants, which I sold to man in Georgia. I have had people as far as Canada purchase my work.” Dave has traveled to clients’ homes to give consultations on trees to see if they are healthy enough to carve.
“I enjoy doing this for a hobby! Chainsaw carving has great potential and I would like to do this as a retirement job. It will allow Virginia and I to travel.” Dave’s wife, Virginia is very supportive of his hobby. She adds, “He’s amazing and so creative. He makes it look so easy.”
To find out more about Dave and his Chainsaw Art, he can be contacted through Facebook.
Take time to find your ARTistic passion along life's journey. When you realize that special gift that resonates within your soul, you will know! This blog has been created around positivity and to encourage one another, so please feel free to comment with kindness.
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