The Nova Scotia Wildlife Carvers and Artists Association was formed in 1989 and now has members throughout the Maritimes. Our first exhibition and competition was held in the fall of 1989, and since then, some of our carvers have advanced to world class artists, bringing home ribbons from the Ward (World) Competition in Ocean City, Maryland.

The club welcomes and caters to all levels of carvers from all skill levels including those interested in becoming carvers. Youth ages 9 -16 are welcome to join but must be accompanied by an adult. While the focus is primarily on wildlife all subjects and types of carving are practiced by various members, including caricatures, relief and stylistic.

We meet every Wednesday from September to mid May at the Woodlawn United Church, 54 Woodlawn Rd, Dartmouth, N.S. for carving sessions, informal discussions and instructional seminars for those interested. Annual membership is only $20.00 and is required to be paid within the first month of the season or initial attendance for new members. A short 1/2 hour business meeting every third Wednesday of the month is conducted.

The sessions include workshop carving projects, but members are also welcome to work on their own carvings. We also have advanced carvers or invited guests to demonstrate specific carving techniques or special interest subjects. Classes and instruction are available through individual members and periodic in-house education courses.

Upcoming events, association business, carving tips, library list and related subjects are featured on this website. The club also maintains an extensive library of books, videos, study birds, study fish and study bills for use by the paid up members.

The highlight of the club is its annual Atlantic Carving Competition. Open to all carvers, the association awards ribbons, trophies and prizes in the Youth, Novice, Intermediate and Open classes. The subject categories are listed on this website on the Carving Show page, judges invited from across Canada and the United States are master carvers and world class authorities on wildlife art.

The Nova Scotia Wildlife Carvers and Artists Association recognizes and thanks the support provided to us by our sponsors of the silent auction at our annual exhibition.