Islands - Wood Carving by Lisa McKenna

This wood carving is inspired by the Isle of Mull, home to local artist and wood carver, Lisa McKenna.

Lisa is based in the artist's studio behind Calgary Art Gallery.

Using locally sourced monkey puzzle wood, Lisa uses a chainsaw and chisel to carve her pieces. She then adds colour and interest through an unique finishing process which involves lots of layering, sanding and waxing. 

In her spare time, Lisa helps out her friend Banjo Beal, tackling interior design make-overs across the Hebrides for the Bafta award winning TV show 'Designing the Hebrides'. To see Lisa carving, make sure to watch Episode 3 of Season Two available on iPlayer. 

ARTIST BIO

Lisa McKenna, Wood Carver

Originally from Glasgow, Lisa began her travels at 19, living in France, Australia and Ireland for many years. In 2003, Lisa arrived at Calgary to work a summer season in the Café, en route to the Alps. Lisa was given a chisel and some wood and encouraged to try carving, first starting with a sea horse. Working in the studio alongside Matthew, Lisa developed her wood carving skills and more than 20 years later, she is still here, living locally and with her carving studio here at the Gallery. We are proud to exclusively sell Lisa's original artworks and represent her.  

Using local hardwoods, elm, ash, sycamore and monkey puzzle, Lisa carves with a chainsaw and chisels. Her original sculptural pieces are inspired by her environment and the changing seasons.