City of Grande Prairie Crest
Completed in May, 2004
by W.F. Judt
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
This carving was commissioned by the City of Grande Prairie, Alberta, for their new City Hall. It hangs in their Council Chambers. Carved in Red Oak, this panel is 35" in diameter and 2" thick. It is finished with a base coat of clear oil-based sanding sealer and a top coat of hardwood wax. The crest depicts the rare Trumpeter Swans which nest in the area, long a symbol of the region. Forestry, agriculture and oil production are also represented as the area's major industries. Mountains are never far from one's view in Grande Prairie, which is in the foothills region of northern Alberta. For information on how to commission a carving of your own, click here.
This closeup of the trees shows how simply they are rendered. Layers help to create a sense of depth, and strong bevels on their boundaries makes each object more visible from a distance. Stamping is used in the background to make the wood appear darker. For information on how to commission a carving of your own, click here.
Wheat sheaves are relatively easy to carve once their detail is reduced to simple shapes. The same goes for the oil dereks which are otherwise complex structures. For information on how to commission a carving of your own, click here.
Click on the image for a larger view.
Click on the image for a larger view.
Click on the image for a larger view.
