Carved Wood – by Angela R.
Ancient Carvings
Wood carving is a form of art that has been cherished and practiced for centuries. It’s an ancient craft that has its roots in various cultures around the world. In Europe, wood carving dates back to the Middle Ages, where it was primarily used for religious purposes.
It was often used to create intricate sculptures and reliefs for churches and cathedrals. The wood carvings were typically made from oak wood, as it was readily available and easy to work with.
As wood carving progressed, artisans started using harder woods such as walnut, mahogany, and teak. Although harder woods are more difficult to carve, they have a beautiful finish and last much longer.
Wood carving has since evolved into a variety of styles, ranging from folk art to contemporary sculptures.
One of the most famous wood sculptors of our time is Willy Verginer, an Italian artist who creates stunning life-size figures from a single block of wood. Verginer is known for his unique approach to wood carving, using vibrant colors and geometric shapes to create his works.
His sculptures often portray everyday people in mundane situations, but with a surreal and dreamlike quality that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
Verginer’s technique involves carving the wooden block into the basic shape of the figure, then sculpting the details using a chisel and hammer. He then uses a hot iron to burn the wood, creating intricate patterns and textures on the surface.
Finally, he paints the sculpture using a bright and bold color palette, bringing the work to life.
Verginer’s wood carvings have been displayed in galleries and exhibitions around the world, and his unique approach to the craft has inspired a new generation of artists to experiment with wood as a medium.
His work is a testament to the versatility and beauty of wood carving, a craft that has withstood the test of time and continues to captivate and inspire people today.
In conclusion, wood carving is an ancient art form that has evolved over time to encompass a wide range of styles and techniques. Willy Verginer is a master of the craft, using his unique approach to create stunning sculptures that capture the imagination and inspire us to see the world in a new way.
His work is a reminder that even in this modern age, traditional crafts such as wood carving still have the power to move and inspire us.