9999. VISITING ARTIST WORKSHOP: Figurative Carving in Leather
Visiting Artist - Wood | Available
Delve into the art of leather carving and learn to create realistic designs on leather with artist Cristopher Kearns. Taking nature as inspiration, you'll learn the fundamentals of tooling realistic designs on leather, including birds, animals, flowers, and more. While working on small practice pieces that can be turned into key fobs, coasters, patches and more, you'll learn about tool selection, technique and process for carving realistic and detailed designs. If time allows, You'll be able to tool and paint a 5" x 7" animal portrait, bringing your leather artistry to life. All tools, and materials are provided and patterns and samples will be available for reference and inspiration. No prior experience is necessary.
Additional Information:
- A material fee of $40 will be included with the total at check out
- Registration will close one month prior to the start of the workshop on 3/21/25
- Enrollment is open to ages 18+
Build your skills with practice designs before defining your final goals!
Christopher Kearns
Christopher Kearns's journey into leatherwork began as a teenager, but it wasn’t until he took a job painting water towers on the road as a newlywed that he truly immersed himself in the craft. With long hours of downtime, he needed something to keep him engaged, and leatherworking quickly became his passion. Eager to learn as much as possible, he completed the Al Stohlman Home Study Course and helped to restart the Pitt Pounders Leather Guild, where he served in various leadership roles, including eleven years as guild president. After spending more than 50 years just north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Chris now resides outside Raleigh, North Carolina, with his wife of over 40 years, Jennifer.
Over the years, he has attended and hosted Leather Guild Shows, learning from some of the most talented leatherworkers in the country. Today, he serves as the Vice President of the Raleigh Leatherworkers Guild, where he continues to teach and learn alongside a community of skilled artisans. Chris has also taught classes at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Western NC.
His work is inspired by the beauty, power, and complexity of God’s creation, particularly the wildlife he's encountered on his adventures. Using leather as his canvas, Chris strives to recreate these awe-inspiring moments—whether through intricate feather carving or painstakingly detailed fur textures, each piece is a labor of love.