“Interested in custom wood carving?” That’s the question Alexander Grabovetskiy asks. He is an internationally acclaimed artist. He is a master of ornamental and architectural wood carving in San Francisco.
Alexander Grabovetskiy was awarded the International Woodcarver title. The Wood Worker’s Institute gave him this honor. He is acknowledged as one of the finest and most skilled wood carvers in the world.
Hand carving is a traditional art. Skilled workers passed it down. The methods used to make true art haven’t changed for centuries. Hand-carved furniture and intricate wood sculptures exemplify this art. No power tools are used. The chisel marks are preserved. These marks are akin to an artist’s brush strokes on canvas.
From Ancient Greece to the Middle Ages, skilled wood carvers have created beautiful pieces. They crafted for royal palaces and different building styles. These styles include Baroque, Rococo, Period, and Modern.
Lutz Hornischer is another abstract wood artist and sculptor. He works in the San Francisco Bay Area. As a child, Lutz started creating art. He worked for many years in entrepreneurial and product design roles for high-tech companies. Throughout his career, he continued doing art. This included sculpting, fresco painting, drawing, and woodcarving.
Lutz felt drawn to work with reclaimed wood. He gives the wood a chance for a fresh start. He explores the intersection between art and nature. Lutz looks for new ways to re-use natural materials. He wants to re-discover old crafts practices.
Lutz Hornischer said that only after applying linseed oil, the piece really comes to life. It shows vibrant natural colors, flowing grain lines and unique imperfections. Wood is a natural material. Nature is just beautiful.
His sculptures and wall art are inspired by nature and life. They reflect the uniqueness of the reclaimed wood he uses. Lutz enjoys transforming old and rustic redwood into contemporary sculptures and fine art.
He leverages the architectural qualities of the wood. He laminates wood boards into larger blocks. He sculpts organic shapes. Lutz explores dynamic grain and natural color patterns. The old wood has scratches, cracks, knots and other imperfections.
Shane “Tonu” Eagleton is a Polynesian master wood carver. His work can be found in several places. These include Golden Gate National Park and the San Francisco Zoo. Also, you can find his work in Presidio National Park. And, the California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park, and Shoreline Amphitheater.
Shane served as the Artist-In-Residence for The Cultural Conservancy in San Francisco. He worked to preserve sustainable indigenous art traditions. He used environmental art to educate people about the planet. Shane communicates the importance of using natural products. He salvages wood from parks, dumps, and landfills. Shane inspires communities to re-connect with their roots. He wants to protect endangered species and cultural traditions. He celebrates the mana that connects all things.
Wooden Carving in San Francisco continues a long tradition. It connects us to nature and our cultural heritage. It reminds us of the beauty and artistry that can be created from this medium.