Carving Tutorial

Chris Pye

Detail of carved trophy by Chris Pye for HRH the Prince of Wales

October 1-5

This course is for more experienced carvers who want to expand their technical and creative skills. All types of carving are welcome, including relief carving, carving-in-the-round, and lettering. Participants may embark upon new projects, bring work in progress, or choose to follow a series of exercises.

Through extensive one-on-one personal supervision, demonstrations, shared class 'problems,' and individual exercises, Chris helps students deepen their understanding of woodcarving. In addition to the technical requirements of carving, instruction emphasizes the crucial aspect of woodcarving design: how carvings 'work' visually and aesthetically.

To get the most out of this week, participants must discuss their projects with Chris in advance so they come with designs appropriate to the scope of the course and their skill levels, as well as the right tools and materials. Students from the previous week’s Relief Carving class are encouraged to stay on for this additional week in order to build upon the skills learned there.

From his studio in Herefordshire, England, Chris Pye works on a broad spectrum of commissions, including lettering, heraldry, furniture ornamentation, architectural carving, and sculpture. A Member of the Master Carvers Association, clients include HRH the Prince of Wales. Chris has some 35 years of experience as a carver, and is the author of seven books. Among the six from GMC Publications Ltd. are Woodcarving Tools, Materials, and Equipment, Volumes 1 & 2 (1995, 2002), Lettercarving in Wood (1997), Relief Carving: a Practical Introduction (1998), and Woodcarving Projects and Techniques (2007). Fox Chapel Publications put out Chris Pye's Woodcarving Course & Reference Manual in 2010. In 2011, Chris launched a video-rich instructional website:    www.chrispye-woodcarving.com.

Open to anyone with carving experience.

Tuition: $695

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