Saturday, August 29 - 9:00am-11:00am Downstairs Classroom

"Carving a Palm Frond/Head" with Terry Avila

• Obtaining and choosing a Palm Frond
• Keeping the essence of the Frond
• Adding heads, wings, tails, etc.
• Use of other mediums and materials
• Preparing the surface for painting

Growing up in the rural San Joaquin Valley of California gave Terry plenty of time to explore the wetlands of the Kings River. It was at an early age that he came to appreciate the waterfowl that migrates through those marshes. After graduating from UC Davis, Terry found a local carving group that sparked his interest in carving decoys. After a couple of carving seminars, Terry started his journey through the world of wildfowl art. That was 1983, for over 37 years Terry has competed in shows across the US and won numerous Best of Show Awards. He still loves to carve and to compete, but is always willing to talk carving with anyone who asks. "I believe we are blessed with special talents". "I really appreciate this unique gift".

Sunday, August 30 - 9:00am-11:00am Downstairs Classroom

All About Bird Painting With Oils and Acrylics" with Ben Heinemann

• Share some thoughts about the good ole days
• Detailing of sealing and base primer coating
• Feather detailing, Combing and Texturing
• Use of the brushes, strokes and techniques
• Difference in the use between oil paintingand acrylic
• Where this industry is going and my thoughts of the future of decoy carving

Ben is a full time professional decoy carver from Durham , NC. He has been carving and selling birds for 33 years. He is best known for decorative decoys, smooth decoys, and shorebird carvings. He also finishes many birds in an antique style. Ben has just recently finished an article about the late Richard LeMaster, who was one of Ben's mentors. Ben will share some in site into where the industry started and some thoughts on where it's going. During his seminar Ben will share in site into sealing, texturing, and painting. Don't miss this chance to share 2 hours with a carving legend.