Encounters with a Master Canoe-Carver
4 Jun
The Sammamish Review in Washington just published some video (above) and a fascinating story, HERE, about master canoe-carver John Mullen.
Mullen, a member of the Snoqualmie Tribe, has revived his people’s nearly-lost canoe-carving tradition. With advice from tribal elders and help from apprentices, he has completed four dug-out river and ocean-going canoes, as well as other, smaller efforts. Mullen’s current project is a 30-foot ocean-going strip canoe, which is set to be unveiled later this month.
Mullen’s carved creations begin with old-growth cedar logs worth up to $30,000. He and his proteges spend time with the raw wood and give thanks for it before making a single cut. After some initial work with a chainsaw, the boats are carved with hand-tools, many of Mullen’s own design.
There’s an earlier story about Mullen and his work with his tribe’s youth, HERE, from the Valley Record.
