Woodcarver Brett Stenson’s Journey from Vinyl Toys to Hand-Carved Sculptures
Portland-based artist Brett Stenson’s artistic journey began in college, where he studied illustration and became fascinated with industrial design. He spent late nights watching tutorials and exploring the world of vinyl toys, dreaming of creating his own. However, as he delved deeper into the world of art, he found that wood resonated with him more than vinyl. The warmth and intention of handcrafted wooden objects appealed to him, leading him to explore wood carving as a medium for his creations.
In 2018, Stenson attended a workshop at Wildcraft in Portland, where he learned the art of Norse carved-wood Christmas ornaments. This experience opened up a world of possibilities for him, and he realized that if he could sketch it, he could carve it. Armed with a simple knife, he started whittling away at blocks of wood, eventually upgrading his tools to speed up the process. He also experimented with clay modeling before committing to wood, creating intricate animal figures that showcase his emotional connection to nature.
While Stenson initially focused on carving bears and other woodland creatures, he has recently shifted his focus to exploring the human side of his work. After the loss of his dog, he found solace in creating sculptures of outdated technology like retro televisions and old computers as a way to connect with his memories. He explores themes of communication and connection, reflecting on the tools we use to connect with each other and the mysteries of the afterlife.
In addition to his wood carving practice, Stenson is also the Senior Art Director of Young Jerks, a branding and packaging design studio based in Brooklyn. His work can be seen on his website and Instagram, where he shares his hand-carved sculptures of animals and nostalgic objects. His pieces, which range from bears with fish to retro radio stations, capture the warmth and nostalgia of handmade objects.
Stenson’s journey from vinyl toys to hand-carved sculptures is a testament to the power of art to connect us with our emotions and memories. Through his intricate wood carvings, he invites viewers to reflect on the beauty of nature, the passage of time, and the enduring power of handmade craftsmanship.
