ASHLEIGH MATTERN
ROCCO MASONS
A DYING ART REVIVED Stone Carving Alive in Saskatoon Stonemason Ryan Watson is part of a tradition that stretches back to the beginning of civilization. More than 12,000 years ago, people began building homes out of stone, a craft that is still alive and well today, if you can find an artisan. Ryan uses specialized tools to shape
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Saskatoon HOME
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rock into accurate geometric shapes, creating mouldings, fireplaces, memorials, garden
and landscaping pieces, keepsakes and more. His work is probably familiar
“Geometry is a pretty accurate skill,” Ryan says. “I could carve 10 of the exact same thing because I have the working drawings. You’re working within a millimetre.”
SPRING 2016
to many in Saskatoon. He helped to restore the iconic King George building in downtown Saskatoon. Passersby notice the delicate detail on the entryway; its leaves and careful curls are all hand-carved. “It’s definitely something that brings a lot of pride,” Ryan says. “It’s something