River Dwellers Carving by Phillip Odden

This is an Embellishment exhibit piece. Available to pick up or have shipped after January 5, 2024.

Artist Statement: River Dwellers features a threesome that could inhabit larger rivers. This original design was made and carved for Viking River Cruises for their newly commissioned Mississippi River boat. The original was finished with natural Danish oil. I really liked my design, so I carved one for myself. As I was drawing the design, I was thinking of the mighty Mississippi running through the center of our country with its strong currents. The center figure is more grounded, trying to cope with swirling dragons above and below. COVID-19 was in the air while I was working on this project.

Creating traditional Norwegian folk art in the rural setting has been my passion since 1977 when I was accepted at the Hjerleid wood carving school in Norway. There I met my wife Else. Together we have been making a living as wood carvers and furniture makers on our farm in rural northwestern Wisconsin where we keep and train Norwegian fjord horses. I received a Vesterheim Gold Medal in Woodworking in 1983.

Dimensions: L 37” x w 18”

Materials: basswood, acrylic paint

No Discounts

If shipping is requested, we will contact you in January with an additional shipping charge.