FIRST MEETING IS TONIGHT: CLUB HOPES TO PRESERVE, PROMOTE WOOD CARVING

Organizers of a new club hope to preserve and promote the art of wood carving in Southeast Missouri.

A group of area woodcarvers, ranging from professionals to beginners, decided to form the organization, offering support and advice to others interested in carving.

The first meeting of the River Valley Wood Carvers will be held at 7 tonight at the Cape Girardeau Public Library.

Kenny Schiwitz, a professional woodcarver from Kelso, said he kept meeting other carvers who were interested in getting together to share information and skills.

"I carve a lot in public and I meet a lot of carvers," Schiwitz said. "It seemed a lot of people are interested in getting into carving."

But he said no organization has existed in Southeast Missouri to assist carvers.

"Like any type of art or craft, it is something that could be lost if it's not kept up," Schiwitz said. "You can read a book, but that's not hands on.

"I've talked to a lot of people who do a little bit of whittling," he said. "And they are interested in doing a little more."

He said the popularity of Silver Dollar City and the Branson area has also added to the popularity of wood carving.

"I know of at least 50 people who are interested in attending our meeting. They are from Caruthersville to Farmington," Schiwitz said.

Eventually organizers hope to host demonstrations, classes and seminars.

Schiwitz belongs to a carving club in Belleville, Ill.

"I know the benefits of getting together with other carvers," he said. "One big thing is they have an area show. Suppliers come in with all kind of tools and wood. And you also get a lot of ideas. Carvers can learn from each other."

Charles Mungle, a Cape Girardeau leathersmith, is interested in learning wood carving also.

"Working with leather is a form of relief carving," Mungle said. "I am wanting to bring wood and leather together as an art form."

He is among those helping to organize the new club.

"I thought there was a need in the area for it," Mungle said. "A lot of people have expressed an interest in learning more about carving. We want to preserve the old trades and the old crafts."

The organization plans to include all types of carving, from whittling with a knife to power-tool carving.

"And we have woodcarvers at different stages some like me just starting to carve to professionals."

Mungle added that carving is a craft open to men, women and children.

"We are hoping to bring the art form to the people," Mungle said.