In Kelowna’s Sarsons Beach Park, a wind-damaged tree is being transformed into art by chainsaw carver Kamron Garbe. Garbe sculpted a 12-foot tree trunk into a great blue heron with kokanee fish swimming at the base. Starting by spray-painting his vision on the bark, Garbe then used chainsaws to carve the tree. He mentioned that sometimes the wood dictates what it wants to be, but often he guides the process. Within six hours, Garbe completed the heron portion, showcasing the efficiency of chainsaws in skilled hands. Last year, Garbe also created an owl sculpture from an old oak tree in the city’s North End in just one day.
Keith Pinkoski from the city’s parks department mentioned that the community enjoyed the previous tree sculpture in Lombardy Park. By the next day, the kokanee fish were beginning to take shape on the tree trunk. It is anticipated that the artwork will be completed by Thursday. Garbe emphasized that while photos and videos provide a glimpse, experiencing the artwork in person by walking around it adds another dimension to the experience. The project is a creative way to repurpose a damaged tree, turning it into a piece of art that the community can enjoy.
Garbe’s talent in chainsaw carving is showcased in his ability to quickly transform a tree trunk into intricate sculptures that capture the essence of nature. Through his work, he brings life to the raw material and creates visually striking pieces that resonate with viewers. By letting his creativity guide the process while also respecting the characteristics of the wood, Garbe is able to create unique and captivating artworks that draw people in. His previous projects, such as the owl sculpture in North End, have been well-received by the community, showcasing his ability to connect with people through his art.
The use of chainsaws in carving allows for a swift and precise process, enabling Garbe to bring his artistic vision to life efficiently. By understanding the tools and their capabilities, he is able to manipulate the wood in a way that brings out the desired forms and details in his sculptures. This mastery of his craft combined with his artistic sensibility results in stunning artworks that showcase his talent and creativity. The combination of skillful craftsmanship and creative vision is evident in Garbe’s work, demonstrating his ability to transform a simple tree trunk into a captivating piece of art that evokes a sense of wonder and admiration.
The transformation of a wind-damaged tree into a majestic great blue heron with swimming kokanee fish at its base highlights the potential for upcycling and repurposing natural materials into art. By taking a damaged tree and turning it into a beautiful sculpture, Garbe not only showcases his talent but also brings attention to the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness. Through his art, he encourages viewers to see the beauty in unexpected places and to appreciate the inherent value of nature. The process of turning a tree stump into a work of art also serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of nature, as it can be repurposed and transformed into something new and beautiful despite its initial damage.
