Leisure

words by sam johnson

LONG AGO, BEFORE THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY WAS A HIPSTER’S PARADISE FULL OF BREWERIES AND A THRIVING ARTS COMMUNITY, it was shaped by logging. Art and wood are ingrained in the Valley’s culture, and the Wisconsin Logging Museum is branching out with an event that links past and present.

The ninth annual U.S. Open Chainsaw Sculpture Championship is being held at Carson Park from Aug. 11-14. A number of carvers from all over the world are coming to Eau Claire to transform 8-foot logs into one-ofa-kind works of art.

While the artists work, the whole family will have activities to take part in. Food, drinks, and entertainment are also scheduled during the event, with kid-friendly events going on throughout. Tickets are available in the form of single-day or full event passes.

The event may only last four days, but the art created is permanent, and guests will have three chances to bid on art pieces.

At the end of the weekend, the final works will be judged, given awards, then sold to the highest bidder.

For those seeking to axe the ticket costs or help out, the Wisconsin Logging Museum is looking for volunteers, with incentives like free tickets and $40 per shift.

Head over to wisconsinlogging.org or the event’s Facebook page for more details.