Learn the Traditional Art of Decoy Carving
Dorchester Center for the Arts is pleased to announce the return of Master Carver Warren Saunders for a new 10-week session entitled “Decoy Carving for All”. This in-person class will be held at DCA on Fridays from 1:00-4:00 p.m. April 23 through June 25. The class fee is $150.00 for DCA members and $185.00 for non-members. Both beginner and experienced carvers are welcome. Students will carve a decoy using a knife or more advanced students will power carve in the Ward-style, and then all decoys are completed with paint. A $75.00 supply fee is payable to the instructor at the first class for the wood, paint, and eyes for the project. Contact DCA at 410-228-7782 for a list of additional supplies and power tools.
A native of Dorchester County, Warren began observing waterfowl early on by spending time in their natural habitat. He studied with noted carvers, spent long hours at the zoo and wildlife sanctuaries and sat in duck blinds in 5-degree weather in order to become skilled at capturing the realism of the migrating species of birds, ducks and geese of the area. In 2012, he received the Maryland Traditions Award as Master Carver. Maryland Traditions is the folklife program of the Maryland State Arts Council. Offered annually, Folklife Apprenticeships support living cultural traditions by funding a master and apprentice folk artist to work together for as long as one year. Saunders continues to compete and win numerous awards, and also judges competitions. He participates in exhibitions and shows throughout the eastern United States, including the Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition in Ocean City and the Waterfowl Festival in Easton.
Students can register online, call 410-228-7782, or stop by 321 High Street in Cambridge. DCA is open Thursdays 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.