Carrbridge is buzzing again!
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The Annual Scottish Open Chainsaw Carving Competition – "Carve Carrbridge" to its countless friends across the globe – is shaping up for its 20th anniversary event on September 2.
And who knows just what amazing shapes it will produce?
The milestone event will mark two amazing decades of creative and technical excellence with https://www.strathspey-herald.co.uk/news/its-carving-home-its-carving-home-to-carrbridge-323890/
From humble beginnings to an international phenomenon, Carve Carrbridge's 19-year journey as a community run event, has been extraordinary.
With 72 former participants from 21 different countries, 20 more competitors will demonstrate their prowess in this celebration of chainsaw carving which has drawn contenders year on year to our beautiful corner of the Scottish Highlands.
The event stands as an integral fixture on the international chainsaw carving competition calendar, highlighting the mesmerizing transformation of raw wood into intricate sculptures. The heightened interest in chainsaw sculpting, partly fuelled by short-form videos and reality TV, has propelled this unique art form into the limelight of public awareness.
Among the distinguished line-up of exceptional carvers, a trio of exceptionally talented female carvers will captivate hearts and minds.
Local carver Alice Buttress, known to many from her appearance on BBC’s Loggerheads programme, will share her artistry and love of nature. Sylvia Itzen, representing Germany, will also make her return, after appearing on Discovery Canada’s Programme ‘A Cut Above’.
Alongside them, Lisa Langley, a newcomer, will go head-to-head in a thrilling four-hour speed carve, showcasing her skills with no holds barred.
Sam Bowsher, the reigning champion from 2022, will face off against his father Pete and another dynamic father-son duo, Tim and Mike Burgess, in a battle of familial chainsaw carving talent. The competitive spirit expands globally with the participation of the first-ever competitor from Finland and an exciting newcomer from Mongolia, confirming the international appeal of Carve Carrbridge.
Gavin Gerrard, the event co-ordinator for 17 years, expressed his excitement: "The 20th anniversary is a testament to the passion and dedication of chainsaw carving mastery from around the world. We're proud as a community to have nurtured this into an international event that showcases the remarkable fusion of artistry and technical skill."
A distinguished panel of judges will evaluate each carving to determine the champions, culminating in the highly anticipated awards ceremony and grand auction of all the carvings. Additionally, attendees play a vital role in the event's success through the People's Choice and Carvers Choice awards, adding an interactive element that engages participants and visitors alike.
Defending champion Bowsher, shares his enthusiasm: "I am looking forward to returning to beautiful Carrbridge with the Claymore and my aim remains the same as previous years, to innovate and entertain the audience. The support and energy of the crowd are what make this event truly remarkable."
The event's success is intertwined with the generous support of local businesses, who sponsor the prizes. Profits from the event are reinvested in the community, making a meaningful contribution to the local area.
Landmark Forest Adventure Park has been a steadfast sponsor since the inception of the competition. Ross Coulter, general manager stated: "Supporting the Scottish Open Chainsaw Carving Competition aligns with our commitment to fostering creativity and community spirit."
Organized by dedicated local volunteers, the Scottish Open Chainsaw Carving Competition represents a true testament to the strength of community collaboration. For 20 years, the residents of Carrbridge have embraced the challenge of hosting such an event, welcoming visitors from near and far to share in the experience.
This landmark 20th Annual Carve Carrbridge promises to be a thrilling celebration of the art of chainsaw carving, where tradition, innovation, and community converge.
Go along to Carrbridge on September 2 to see all the chainsaw masters carve another chapter in the history of the strath's cutting-edge competition!
