Blue Herons Carving

Chainsaw Artist Created Riverfront Sculpture at Riverview Terrace

In mid-August of 2016, the Traverse City Housing Commission commissioned Scott Kuefler to carve a riverfront sculpture on its Riverview Terrace property in downtown Traverse City.  He began work around noon on Saturday, August 13 and finished on the afternoon of August 14.  Despite periods of inclement weather, many people gathered to watch him work - with some even watching from their kayaks in the river. 

The artist, Scott Kuefler, is a well-known chainsaw artist, woodcarver, chainsaw sculptor, or tree carver (depending on how you want to describe the activity) from Chesterfield, Michigan who has been professionally active since 2001.  He is an award-winning national and international competitor having competed across the United States (from Michigan to Florida) and as far away as Japan.  Some of his work can be viewed on his website:  www.carvingsbyscott.com

The tree was removed to make room for the Uptown Riverfront condos in 2014 but TCHC immediately searched for an artist with the ability to deliver an ornate riverfront sculpture.  After a long search and interview process, Scott Kuefler was selected to create a piece of his choice to stand guard along the Boardman/Ottaway River.