Introduction to Woodcarving with Gerry Holzman

Gerry Holzman has been a professional woodcarver since 1970, a carousel restorer since 1976 and a collector of New York State folklore since seventh grade. Holzman learned his woodcarving trade by studying in England with the late Gino Masero, one of England's 32 master carvers. During his career, Holzman has restored over 75 pieces of antique carousel art and has created approximately 200 pieces of original carousel carving.

Since 1984, he has been the head carver and executive director of the Empire State Carousel Project. The project, which features the work of over 1000 craftspeople throughout New York State is now on view at The Farmers' Museum.

In this three-day workshop, students be tasked with the exercise of creating a caricature of the human face. Using deep-relief wooden heads from the Hotel Buffalo Ratskellar (circa 1900) as models, students will be guided through the process required to carve a full-size replica (six-inches long) of a portrait head.  Since each model is unique, participants will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of expressions--some humorous, some grotesque, and some serenely benign.

Tools and materials: Students will be required to bring their own tools. The carving is designed to be successfully completed with a simple set of 6-10 basic gouges; a list will be included with registration information. Each student will be provided with a profile-cut basswood carving block. Sharpening instructions and facilities will also be available.

Fee: $225, plus $25 materials fee.

All workshops are held at The Farmers' Museum and require reservations. Please call (607) 547-1450.