Carving in the Ozarks

Let the chips fall where they may when carvers with chain saws start creating works of art.

Carving in the Ozarks is an annual rite of spring here in Eureka Springs. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a total sensory experience, as men and women with chain saws impose their vision on large sections of logs.

This year's carving takes place on Friday and Saturday, April 18-19. This event focuses on the art of chainsaw carving. Throughout the weekend visitors of Eureka Springs will be treated to a number of exciting artistic displays that will have you never looking at a chainsaw the same way again! Typically 15 to 25 carvers take part in the event each year, creating masterpieces right before your eyes. These carvers come from across the country for this event, and they're very serious about the competition.

Events for the festival include The Main Event carving, which takes place all day Friday, and two quick carves that take place on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. During the quick carves, the artists have just an hour to produce a quality piece. The auction of all pieces that were carved during the weekend will be at 4 p.m. on Saturday, with proceeds benefiting two local charity groups.

This spring, get out to Eureka Springs for a time of heartland craftsmanship and a good cause with the Carving in the Ozarks Festival.

You'll find plenty of free parking at the lot on Rockhouse Road, which intersects U.S. Highway 62 a couple of miles east of Eureka Springs. The carving field includes plenty of room for the crafters to work their magic, and visitors will also enjoy concessions right on the site.

To get a taste of this event, try the website www.carvingintheozarks.com. You'll find pictures of the artists at work, as well as some of their creations. Will one of those big carved bears fit in your back seat for the ride home?