Wildlife Carvings Capture Nature
Nova Scotians will have an opportunity to see the year's most spectacular selection of wildlife models, decoys and other wood carvings when the Nova Scotia Wildlife Carvers and Artists Association presents its annual competition and show May 15 and 16.
Hundreds of wildlife sculptures will be displayed, including songbirds, whales, raptures, fish, and ducks. Each is so real that people might easily expect them to move at any moment, and each has been carved in the last year.
"The show has appeal to all ages," said show chair, Sheila Young. "Anyone interested in nature, art, carving or beautiful things will enjoy this event. Children especially love the duck decoy float competition, it's always a crowd pleaser."
Nova Scotians are some of the best carvers in the world, bringing home top ribbons each year at international competitions. Visitors will see some of these first-class carvings throughout the weekend, along with demonstrations and opportunities to meet and talk with the carvers.
"This event is a wonderful mix of art and nature showcasing Nova Scotia's remarkable wildlife," said Janet Maltby, museum manager of interpretation. "Visitors are captivated by this art form."
On Saturday, May 15, a panel of judges will pick from the best in each category. Members will also compete for the best carvings of this year's theme bird, the owl. This year's featured artist, and competition judge, is John Leeder of Ontario. John has won numerous peoples' choice awards and best in show ribbons throughout North America.
On Sunday, visitors will have an opportunity to watch the head- carving event, where competitors work under the pressure of time and the watchful eyes of their colleagues to complete a carved head.
The Nova Scotia Wildlife Carvers and Artists Association competition and show is open to the public on Saturday, May 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Judging takes place at 10 a.m. On Sunday, May 16, viewing times are between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. The head-carving competition starts at 1 p.m. General admission to the museum is charged. The Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History is located at 1747 Summer St., in Halifax.