Oceano CA Woodcarver’s Work Owned By Few And Admired By Millions

R.L. Blair is one of 18 artists profiled in a new book Art of Chainsaw Carving that will be available in local bookstores in October. R.L. Blair's work has been seen in all five Disney theme-parks and he recently completed a 14' carvings of the Disney bears from the movie, "Brother Bear".

(PRWEB) October 11, 2005 -- R.L. Blair from Oceano, California is one of 18 chainsaw carving artists profiled in a new book Art of Chainsaw Carving, An Insider’s Look at 18 Artists Working Against the Grain. What began as a childhood whittling hobby, has developed into a 35-year professional woodcarving career. From his home studio – within walking distance from Pismo Beach - R.L. creates woodcarvings for several commissioned accounts in addition to Disney. Blair’s work is scattered throughout all five of the Disney-owned theme parks. Recently he completed a 14-foot carving of the bear characters in the Disney movie, Brother Bear. Art of Chainsaw Carving will be available for sale in October from all major bookstore chains, from online booksellers and in specialty retail stores.

Art of Chainsaw Carving tells the story of the development and evolution of chainsaw carving, celebrates the early artists and profiles contemporary artists like R.L. Blair. The book includes photos of completed work and a directory of national and international chainsaw carving events. These events draw thousands of spectators but you won’t find R.L. Blair there – he prefers to create woodcarvings in his Oceano studio – away from the commotion!

R.L. Blair and his business partner, Susan Blair, have teamed up to turn creativity into a business. He says, “I still really enjoy the old traditional handcarving but unfortunately you don’t get paid for your time investment. It was the introduction of chainsaws that makes it possible to make a living at it.”

Art of Chainsaw Carving is published by Fox Chapel, a leading publisher of woodworking, woodcarving and scroll saw books and magazines. Fox Chapel publishes Wood Carving Illustrated and Scroll Saw Workshop magazines. Visit www.FoxChapelPublishing.com

For More Information Contact:
Brenda Wagner
Marketing and Public Relations
Fox Chapel Publishing
1970 Broad Street
East Petersburg, PA 17520
717-560-4703, ext. 48