Who Are We
Known as the AWCA, our association has been celebrating the art of wildfowl carving for nearly four decades. If you want to learn how to carve, or grow your ability, this is the association to join.
The Alberta Wildlife Carving Association was formally incorporated on the 29th of April 1987 as the Edmonton Decoy Carving Association. Subsequently, the name was officially changed to the Alberta Wildlife Carving Association to reflect the members’ desire to carve birds (Songbirds and Raptors), animals, fish and sea creatures in addition to decoys. Over the years the AWCA has offered a variety of classes for people wanting to learn how to carve. AWCA also offers progressively advanced classes where members can learn additional skills such as texturing, wood burning and habitat creation to bring their carvings “to life”.
The AWCA is known for its friendly, thoughtful members who want to show their appreciation for wildlife by carving three-dimensional wood sculptures.
1987
Carvings Completed
Classes Completed
The Alberta Wildlife Carving Association (AWCA) is dedicated to the art of wildlife carving, offering a supportive environment for carvers of all skill levels. We provide a variety of workshops and classes, host regular meetings for project collaboration and technique sharing, and organize competitions and exhibitions to showcase members’ work. Our extensive library of resources and tools aid in the continuous learning and improvement of our members. Through community and networking opportunities, AWCA fosters a passionate and creative space for wildlife carving enthusiasts.
Carving is the art of turning a piece of wood into a three dimensional piece of art. Carvers use a variety of tools to “find” the bird or animal hidden in the block of wood. The majority use rotary power tools although some prefer to use knives, chisels, and gouges.
The AWCA is a carving club. As such, it provides a social element for those interested in carving wildlife pieces. For newcomers AWCA offers accomplished instructors and an encouraging atmosphere to learn. It also has kits available for the “beginning “carver so the financial impact is minimized.
Members of the AWCA are driven by the vision and mission of the association as well as a deep appreciation for nature and the wildlife found there.
The Association knows that all individuals have hidden artistic potential, therefore it strives to actively promote and increase awareness of this art form to the general public through various means and competitive events.
The organized activities are fashioned to enable participants to reach their maximum potential and to excel in the art.
AWCA’s mission is to play a leadership role in fostering and promoting artistic excellence in three-dimensional art of wildlife carving under the direction or world class and local instructors and teachers.
Carvers use a variety of references such as photos, casts, and patterns to work on their project. Then they carve the work using power or hand tools and paint their work.
The AWCA is active in the community, participating in events such as Sherwood Park’s “Try It Days” and instructing classes at Amiskwaciy Academy
Ready to take your carving skills to the next level?
Become a member today and join our vibrant community of wildlife carving artists!
The Alberta Wildlife Carving Association is grateful to the following Donors, Funders and Sponsors. Their generous support allows us to continue to offer classes, workshops and shows at a reasonable cost.
The Alberta Wildlife Carving Association is the Northern Alberta home for wildlife carvers. You will be welcome here if you want to learn how to carve these beautiful creatures or grow your ability to create more detailed and complex projects.
Would you like to learn more about wildlife carving or have questions about this art form, please contact one of our members.
Membership Form
