The New York Chainsaw Artist Don Mesuda Creates Master Carvings From Reclaimed Logs of Wood

by Diana I

The experience of Zen-like enlightenment through carving.

Self-taught by looking at online videos and studying the technique, Don began his chainsaw wood carvings in 2012.

It all started after his retirement when Don felt the need to fill in his spare time and by the moment of seeing an Adirondack chair his interest in woodworking suddenly sparked.

The funny thing about his activity is that when he starts an artwork, Mesuda doesn’t always know what subject will materialize in the final stage.

As much as he loves carving, he is also enjoying painting the wood with an airbrush and sanding the sculptures to get the final shape.

Down the path to his journey he is always ready for the next step as per his motto also:

“Your best carving is your next carving.”

Don Mesuda - Native American 4
Don Mesuda – Native American

For Don, this is not a primary income but the happiness comes in with complete autonomy and the freedom to do what you want.

Also getting support and good feedback from the carving community seems to him far more valuable than cash.

If you go to the artist’s backyard you will find a wide range of wildlife characters like owls, raccoons, eagles, and bear cubs chopped with care using the chainsaw.

Be sure to check Mesuda’s work on his site donmesuda.com or on Instagram.

Don Mesuda - Native American 2
Don Mesuda – Native American 2
Don Mesuda - Native American 5
Don Mesuda – Native American 3
Don Mesuda - Native American 3
Don Mesuda – Native American 4
Don Mesuda - Native American 2
Don Mesuda – Native American 5
Don Mesuda - Native American 6
Don Mesuda – Native American 6

 

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