Topics

Nathan Ledyard Carves out a Niche in Surf Art

It wasn’t until I discovered carving and painting wood that I truly came into my own as an artist.

16

Picture 16 of 18

“Rainbow Road” (11 in. x 14 in.) One thing I’ve learned from doing commissions is that people love sunsets. I like to use gold paint to brighten the sky and to give the textured highlights added shimmer. Image: Nathan Ledyard

My art career began a few years ago when started painting on canvas, but it wasn’t until I discovered carving and painting wood that I truly came into my own as an artist. Since I began working with wood, my art has evolved from flat paintings to the three-dimensional carvings that have come to exemplify my style. At the same time I was developing my carving skills, I became increasingly interested in finding ways to incorporate the wood grain into my pieces. I start by looking at the wood itself, and then I try to tap into my experiences surfing and watching waves to come up with a scene that works with the grain pattern. For me, it is easier and more enjoyable than starting with a blank canvas, and I find that helps me keep my work fresh and organic.