[Woodcarver] Not a "Master Carver?"

[Woodcraft Shop]

You really hit the nail on the head with this one, Bill.

After beating around this business for over 20 years, that's one thing that 
irks me the most .... someone calling him/herself a "Master Carver" with 
nothing to back up their claim.

I was given the following observations years ago about the process of 
becoming a "Master Carver".  I have no idea whether it is based in fact, 
but I do know that most, if not all who purport themselves to be a master 
carver, have never gone through even a part of the process.

I'm sure someone with a more extensive background in the arts, especially 
woodcarving, will be able to add or subtract credence to the following .... 
(are you listening, Ivan???)  :o)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

MASTER CARVER:  The term has been used in European carving circles for 
centuries.  The steps to being a Master are long and hard.  One has to 
start by being accepted by an existing Master to apprentice in his shop. 
 As an apprentice, you do nothing for 4 to 5 years but keep the shop clean, 
lug wood around, learn how to sharpen tools and do whatever else the Master 
Carver requests.

If you can successfully accomplish that phase, you reach Journeyman status. 
 This allows you to start carving some.  Mainly you are doing the "grunt 
work" of the Master.  Removing wood on a carving where it is not necessary, 
helping with the construction of clay maquettes to be used in the planning 
of a major piece, and again, doing whatever the Master Carver chooses to 
have you do.  Eventually you will start a bit of design work on your own 
and be allowed to venture into a bit of creativity without the Master's 
touch.  This process can go on for many, many years.

Eventually you will be allowed to create a number of projects that will be 
presented to the gathering of Masters for their approval or disapproval. 
 At that time, you may or may not receive the title of "Master".

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

So there you have it, as it was given to me.  This subject should open some 
lively debate, but Our Fearless Leader did open the door and ask for 
comments!

BIG DOG  (Master Barker)

PS:  Bill may not consider himself a "Master Carver", but in my opinion he 
performs on the higher side of, and I quote,  "between the absolutely WORST 
carving on earth and the absolutely BEST."


-----Original Message-----
From:	Bill Judt [SMTP:bjudt at sasktel.net]
Sent:	Friday, June 11, 2004 1:46 PM
To:	[Woodcarver]
Subject:	[Woodcarver] Not a "Master Carver?"

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