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By: Johanna Elattar
In the vast tapestry of artistic expression, where paintbrushes dance on canvases and sculptors mold clay into shape, there exists a singular craft that marries raw power with delicate precision: chainsaw artistry. And among its practitioners stands Dave Dowd, a maestro of the chainsaw whose prowess has carved him a revered place in the pantheon of wooden wonders.
At 47, Dave’s journey into the world of chainsaw sculpting wasn’t scripted in his life’s plan. It unfolded serendipitously, sparked by a modest turkey carved from wood. What began as a casual dalliance quickly metamorphosed into a fervent passion, compelling Dave to make the daring leap from his conventional job to devote himself entirely to his newfound art.
For the past seven years, Dave’s life has been a symphony of sawdust and shavings, as he deftly transforms ordinary logs into extraordinary works of art. With the skill of a seasoned artisan, he crafts approximately 10 bespoke pieces annually, each one a testament to his boundless creativity and technical mastery.
One of Dave’s recent triumphs—a monumental 15-foot bench commissioned for The Trout Run Camp Resort in Wellsville—stands as a crowning achievement in his illustrious career. Adorned with intricately carved bears and bear cubs gamboling amidst schools of trout, the bench seamlessly blends art with nature, enhancing the resort’s landscape with its sublime beauty.
Yet, amidst the plethora of projects Dave has undertaken, none have tested his mettle quite like his rendition of a pair of entwined elephants. The scale and intricacy of the piece posed a formidable challenge, pushing Dave’s skills to their limits. Undeterred, he approached the task with unwavering determination, ultimately breathing life into his vision with breathtaking finesse.
For Dave, inspiration is not an elusive muse; it is omnipresent in the bountiful splendor of the natural world. From the whispering forests to the silent majesty of wildlife, every facet of nature serves as a wellspring of creativity, fueling his imagination with its boundless allure.
Yet, Dave’s artistry transcends mere craftsmanship; it is an expression of profound devotion. He describes the process of creation as a labor of love, where every stroke of his blade is imbued with passion and purpose. It’s a testament to his unwavering commitment that surpasses mere monetary gain, finding solace and fulfillment in the act of creation itself.
Materially, Dave’s palette knows no bounds. While cedar remains his preferred medium for its natural durability, he ventures into a diverse array of woods including red oak, sugar maple, cherry wood, and the lightweight white pine. Each timber brings its own distinct challenges and possibilities, enriching his creations with depth and character.
In his artistic odyssey, collaboration plays a pivotal role, with Dave’s girlfriend, Dawn Davison, adding her deft touch to the finishing flourishes of his pieces. Together, they form an indomitable partnership, their combined talents elevating each creation to dizzying heights of aesthetic brilliance.
Safety is paramount in Dave’s realm, both in the heat of competitions and the tranquility of his studio. Adorned in safety gear and with protective tents erected to shield onlookers from errant wood chips, Dave ensures that every aspect of his craft is executed with meticulous care and caution.
As Dave Dowd continues to etch his mark into the annals of chainsaw artistry, his legacy is not merely one of carved wood but of boundless passion and unwavering dedication. With each rev of his chainsaw, he carves a path for future generations of artists to follow, leaving behind a legacy that resonates with beauty, inspiration, and the timeless allure of creation.
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell based writer who has dozens of interesting articles in our archives, specializes in community news like this artist feature. Contact her anytime via email, hauntedhill@yandex.com
