Local Artist Profiled in New Book
Called the Johnny Appleseed of Chainsaw Carving
East Petersburg, PA. Don Colp from Oakridge, Oregon is one of 18 chainsaw carving artists profiled in a new book, Art of Chainsaw Carving, An Insider’s Look at 18 Artists Working Against the Grain. Don Colp was one of the early chainsaw carvers who traveled across the country demonstrating how to carve at high speeds with a powerful chainsaw. In one year, 1974, he logged 100,000 miles on his converted old school bus as he planted the idea of chainsaw art and captivated audiences. Art of Chainsaw Carving will be available for sale in October from all major bookstore chains, from online booksellers and in specialty retail stores.
Art of Chainsaw Carving tells the story of the development and evolution of chainsaw carving, celebrates the early artists like Don Colp and profiles contemporary artists. The book includes a directory of major national and international chainsaw carving events – chainsaw carving competitions draw hundreds of artists and thousands of spectators.
While he travels less than he used to, Don Colp remains active in the carving community. He’s been joined by his sons, who are also chainsaw carvers, in the family sawmill business. The family also own a shop and a museum housing vintage chainsaws, memorabilia and carvings. Don enjoys early-American-themed sculptures – cowboys, Native Americans, and horses – and wildlife sculpture, especially salmon and whales. “And,” says his wife Barbara, “Don is always ready and willing to do what he can to promote chainsaw sculpting and to help the carvers in the business.”
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