Our sister in law Lori McCarthy is hosting a ‘Cod Sounds’ spoon carving course on the 22nd of March.
We were confused when she first told us, asking; “What is spoon carving?”
She provided a quick demonstration and its exactly what it sounds like – whittling a spoon from a piece of wood. We watched in awe, wondering to whom this might appeal?
She read us perfectly, waiting until that very moment to let us know the course sold out in 42 minutes.
“… spoon carving trumped knitting …”
Apparently, spoon carving has trumped knitting as the “hip” new activity for all the cool kids. Including her head instructor, Simon Collins, a lovely Irish lad who’s operated a spoon carving studio at St. John’s, Newfoundland’s ‘Quidi Vidi Village Plantation’ for the past year.
“… the cool kids…”
Like knitting, spoon carving is a simple study that is accessible to pretty much everybody. It is a slow and methodical craft, busying only the hands and allowing the mind to wander freely. It is tangible, and near instantly gratifying. Its beauty is subjective, and therefore, an art without critics. Wood is soothing to the touch, evoking sensations that attune the carver to the environment. Spoon carving brings one in perfect balance with the natural environment and the most basic form of resource development.
Each spoon becomes a unique conversation piece. Those who surrounded you during the carving process would wield tremendous influence on the finished product – can you imagine sharing class space with the likes of Alan Doyle (the hippest guy we know) and how he might play into your spoon’s story. Perhaps you were startled by a yelp from a neighbour’s new puppy and dug a little deeper than you’d planned while scooping the bowl. Even your choice of wood will make for an interesting discussion – softer wood turns quicker while oak would provide the kind of rigidity your mother would appreciate when she’s mixing a thick cake batter.
“… conversation pieces…”
These days it seems we’re all trying to engage in activities that promise peace of mind, environmental stewardship, minimal impact, and an opportunity to engage with our community.
Looks like Lori is spooning up exactly what they want to eat.
Great job sister, you’re doing us proud – again!
“… doing us proud…”
