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Snow Carving

Alaena Warner • Carving

Students will start by helping construct snow carving blocks, which would then be left for a few days to firm up. They would also create sketches and a maquette, or scale model of the design they wish to carve. Students will measure out a grid on the sculpture, used to rough out the sculpture design. Students will learn about using snow carving tools safely to carve out their design, and experiment with different textures and ways of finishing their sculpture.

Grade Suitability2-12
Maximum Class Sizeclass size
Time Required3+ hrs plus 2-4 hrs prep (to prepare blocks)
Material RequiredArtist will supply plywood sculpture forms and carving tools and maquette making supplies as needed
Material Costunder $40
Language of InstructionEnglish
CommunitiesAll
Special NotesThis workshop will likely need to take place after the Christmas holiday, depending on weather conditions. With support in advance to build the forms it could potentially take place in other Yukon communities, so please contact me to see if it is feasible. Scale of the sculpture will depend on the age and number of children involved, with an ideal option being making small blocks carved in small groups.

Alaena Warner

From the time I could pick up a pencil all I wanted to do was draw and I drew on every available surface (much to my parent’s frustration)! These drawings, like most children’s early drawings, formed a narrative about my experiences that generated inquiry and insight into the world around me. Reflecting on this, I believe that fostering creativity benefits well-being and development at every life stage. As an art teacher, I look forward to the opportunity to create workshops and fun interactions that encourage children’s innate creativity, self-expression, and resilience, thereby supporting them to thrive.

I hold a BFA in Studio Art (Painting and Drawing) from Concordia University, Montreal, completed the Sundog Carving Program (now NCES), and most recently a BSW from Yukon University. I enjoy the cross-pollination of my interests in art-making and connection-building. Much of my artwork has been made for community events, such as winter festivals, parades, and performances, and has included lantern making, giant puppet making, cardboard masks, and snow carving, all of which involve a lot of interaction. I see these events as contemporary rituals that bring people together in a meaningful way. I also spent over a decade with a local NGO providing support to families and gave many art and craft workshops. I treasure collaboration, so please bring me your idea, and let's explore what we can create together! 

Contact the artist

  • 306-930-3968
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