Wood carving is one of oldest art forms, although it is difficult to determine it's origins with any degree of accuracy. Wood deteriorates as it ages. Moisture takes it's toll as it rots the wood and it is vulnerable to fire. Unlike the carvings in marble and stone which are more durable, many fine specimens have been lost. In Egypt, where the hot, dry air protected them from moisture and decay, a statue was discovered dating back to 2500 BC. Religious institutions contain many fine pieces done during the Dark Ages. Old castles and mansions are also treasure troves. Many of the sculptures in ancient Greece were of wood. Figureheads for ships have been created throughout history, the oldest still known to be in existence is a dragon's head from a Viking Ship. Spanish Galleons were adorned with carvings. Michelangelo and Donatelli in Italy executed many pieces in wood.

The advent of steel tools added to the quality of carving by allowing more precise configurations and greater detail. Power tools are now available which greatly reduce the time consuming "roughInc out" or "bosting'' process prior to detailed carving. Chain Saws are also used for fast wood removal on large pieces. Chisels can be obtained in all shapes and sizes to satisfy almost every carving need.

In Europe, where commercial carving first flourished, Guilds were formed to insure excellence of the art. the term "Master Carver" came into being. To attain this distinction it was usually first necessary to take and successfully complete an art course. Then followed several years of apprenticeship under an established master carver. Finally, one must design and carve an original work and submit it to the Guild for approval. It is understandable that few carvers have ever attained this lofty distinction. While not possessing the title there are many individuals who are very talented and do professional quality work. There are approximately 30,000 carvers of varying ability who are members of the National Woodcarvers Association, most of whom practice the art as a hobby. Whether professional, intermediate or beginner, anyone can realize pleasure and satisfy their creative urge by - taking an inanimate block of wood and turning it into a thing of beauty.

Wood carving takes many forms. There are the realistic or Stylized in-the-round (three dimensional, free standing) figures of humans, animals and birds. They may range in size from miniature to larger than life. These subjects, as well as scenery and still life of all types are also executed in low and high relief. Furniture carving is done extensively. It is used to decorate bric-a-brac, doors, and other items of utility. Almost any form that the mind can conjure up can be presented in wood.

For a long time carving was practiced by a few professionals who satisfied a limited demand for their work. Whether one could earn a living from it was problematical and only those who were truly dedicated tried it. For a time it almost became a lost art. Several developments came about which created a renaissance.

First there developed a demand for decoys and realistic wildlife carvings. In the beginning the birds were shaped and painted to resemble a particular type. As power grinders, buffers, and wood burning equipment became available it became possible to duplicate as well as paint feathering. Today the art has advanced to the point where the birds are carbon copies of the real thing. Consequently there is a great demand and many collectors. As the demand grew prices soared and many carvers are engaged in this activity and some are making a business out of it. Another area where an increasing demand exists is in Carousel Animals. These magnificent carvings were first produced by emigrants from other countries and at one tine graced carousels at parks and fairs all over the country. Interest waned for a time as other forms of entertainment became popular. There has been a resurgence of interest lately as carvers are restoring neglected specimens and producing new animals for both operating carousels and collectors. One such carousel of interest to New Yorkers is the Empire State Carousel being carved and assembled in Islip. NY., under the direction of Gary Holzman. It will feature animals, birds, and other things of interest within the State. Additionally, there are many carving clubs which hold periodic shows where members display and sell their work. On the international level there is the House of ANRI in Italy and the religious carving producers of Ober| ammergau,|Germany not to mention those in the Black Forest who specialize in Cuckoo Clocks. Nearer home is the Carving Colony in Ste Jean, Port Joli Quebec Province, Canada.

The only requirements for doing carving are wood, a few tools, time, patience and some imagination. Artistic training and ability is also helpful but is not absolutely essential. For a long time wood native to the area of the carvers residence was used. Now there are dealers who import, stock, and sell wood from all over the world. Basswood is the choice of most carvers because it is uniform and light in color, close grained, semi-hard, knot free, and carves easily affording fine detail. It also takes stains well. White pine, walnuts mahogany, birch, and many others are also used. Tools are available in all shapes, sizes, and configurations but an extensive inventory is needed only by those who carve professionally. A carving knife and a few specialized tools such as Warren or Exacto will suffice for beginners.

Carving is an ideal hobby for retirees and senior citizens who have time on their hands. As you work with a shapeless, inanimate block of wood removing sections to form a rough outline of a figure or design and then finally rounding, smoothing, and perhaps stylizing the final product, you are aware of the creative process in every step.