Uncovering the Magic of Woodcarving in the Scottish Highlands
As I roll up my sleeves and dive into the wood carving workshop here at Loch Ness Shores, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation and wonder. The crisp mountain air, the sound of the nearby stream, and the sight of the towering pines set the perfect stage for an immersive experience with nature’s raw materials.
I’m greeted by the warm smile of our instructor, April, who exudes a contagious enthusiasm for her craft. “Welcome to the world of wood carving,” she begins, her eyes twinkling with excitement. “Today, we’re going to explore the endless possibilities that lie within these natural treasures.”
April’s passion for her work is palpable, and it’s clear that this is more than just a class – it’s a journey of discovery, creativity, and community. As she explains, “Natural building has taken me down many different roads over the years — meeting countless different people from all over the country, visiting gorgeous structures near and far, appearing on a television show in Japan (??!), baking thousands of pizzas out of a cob oven… the list goes on.”
Embracing the Rhythm of Nature
April starts by guiding us through the process of selecting the perfect piece of wood. “You see, each tree has its own unique story to tell,” she says, running her fingers over the grain of a fallen branch. “It’s our job to listen and let that story unfold through our carving.”
As we examine the different types of wood, she shares insights into their distinctive properties and the traditional uses of each. “Birch, for instance, is known for its smooth texture and light color, making it a popular choice for intricate carvings. Meanwhile, the dense and sturdy oak is often used for functional pieces like bowls and utensils.”
The way April speaks about the materials, it’s as if she’s unveiling the hidden secrets of the forest. She emphasizes the importance of sustainability, explaining, “Understanding the impact of using natural materials for their most recognizable works, in 2010 the Workshop began a reforestation initiative called Palo que habla. As of 2022, the initiative had replanted more than 40,000 trees across nearly 80 acres of land.”
Carving with Intention
With our chosen pieces of wood in hand, April leads us through a series of warm-up exercises, teaching us the proper techniques for holding the tools and shaping the material. “Remember, carving is all about finding the rhythm,” she says, her movements fluid and graceful as she demonstrates a simple spoon design.
As I begin to chisel away at the wood, I’m struck by the meditative quality of the process. The sound of the blade slicing through the grain, the gentle curling of the shavings, and the gradual transformation of the material – it’s almost hypnotic. I find myself becoming lost in the moment, my cares melting away as I focus on the task at hand.
Connecting with the Land and Community
As the workshop progresses, I can’t help but notice the sense of camaraderie that’s blossoming among the participants. We share stories, swap techniques, and offer encouragement to one another, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
April emphasizes the importance of this community aspect, explaining, “Not only was the practice of building with others a truly rewarding experience, it proved to be a powerful catalyst for creating relationships and community amongst far-flung people.” She invites us to consider how our woodcarving pieces might be used to bring people together, whether it’s a beautifully crafted serving bowl or a whimsical sculpture.
The workshop culminates with a display of our creations, each one a unique expression of our individual experiences and connection to the natural world. As I admire the diverse array of works, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. This is more than just a class – it’s a transformative journey that has allowed me to forge a deeper bond with the land and the community around me.
As I pack up my tools and prepare to head back to Loch Ness Shores, I know that the lessons I’ve learned here will stay with me long after the workshop has ended. The art of woodcarving has opened my eyes to the beauty and wonder of the natural world, and I can’t wait to continue exploring the endless possibilities that lie within these ancient materials.
