Lance Lichtensteiger has been designing and carving wildlife for 40 years. His daughter Wendy joined him in 2000.
Before a 1920s blight decimated the growth of American Wormy Chestnut, this hard wood was used in the construction of many log cabins and bridges. It is from these failing structures that Lance and Wendy find most of their material. The wavy, feathery grain pattern of the wood adds natural character and realism to their birds. After the logs are rough cut on a band saw they are chiseled into shape, and sanded smooth. The pieces are then attached and mounted on a base. The pieces are stained and painted, and a clear sealer applied, bringing the sculptures to life.
