Woodcarving is an art form that takes many years to master, but for East Tennessee Native and Professional Woodcarver and Renowned Instructor Gene Webb it’s about the passion of creation and attention to detail that makes woodcarving his life’s pastime. With the launch of his brand new website and upcoming instructional DVD’s and classes, HometownSevier.com decided to sit down with Gene and focus in on who he is as an artist, his carvings, and what’s around-the-bend for this innovative woodcarver from the hills of East Tennessee.
Tell us about yourself and your family?
I grew up on Nebo Mountain, in Walland, TN, which is small community in Blount County. I moved to Townsend TN, when I got married 22 years ago. I have a 17-year-old daughter.
Who were your carving influences…early and later on?
I started carving when I was 10 years old. I remember watching my father whittle on a cedar stick; watching the shavings curl off the stick was amazing to me. My dad got me a knife, and after mastering the curly shavings, he took me around to some carving shops. 
Back then I saw no one putting hair on animals, all the animals were sanded slick, but the carving was really detailed. Most every thing back then was carved from cedar or walnut.
What type of carvings do you do and what type do you enjoy most?
Now I prefer my animals to be carved from basswood. I can capture the detail better in soft wood and it takes paint better. For my chainsaw carvings, masks, spirits, indians, bears, etc., I prefer cedar or walnut. The white pine seems to crack too much. Now I seem to carve about anything I want to.
Do you enter competitions? Have you ever won?
I have entered many competitions over the years, and won many awards such as Best of Show, Carver’s Choice and People’s Choice. I’ve been on “Live At Five” and have worked for DIY Network’s “Blog Cabin”. I’ve had many news articles written about my work and I’ve been on the cover of Chip Chats magazine in 2001.
You have been a woodcarving instructor for many years. Why teach?
I’ve been teaching woodcarving for around 17 years. I enjoy watching people’s faces light up when they see what they can do with a little help. I also have around 13 “How To” videos on hand and power carving. I teach one-on-one classes and have a couple more classes left in 2009 on a cedar Indian mask and one on a relief carved bear sitting on a branch.
Tell us about your studio and shop.
I have a large studio with a classroom upstairs, workshop downstairs and a supply store at the front of the building. I can do a small chainsaw class out-back, but no more than 3 students at a time.
What is next for Gene Webb Artistically and also for your business? New Website?
I’m enjoying carving the mask right now. It’s kind of new to me, but who knows when the new wears off…I have a feeling I will think of something. I’m Working on my new website. It has taken a lot of my carving time, but now that it’s complete, maybe I can get cranked off again. You can visit it at www.genewebbcarvings.com
What does Gene Webb do when he is not carving?
I use to love going fishing and camping, but my work (or carving…which ever you want to call it) takes up most of my time. Maybe some day I can get back into it.
What are your thoughts of living in the Great Smoky Mountains?
I guess I’m pretty lucky to be living here in the Great Smoky Mountains. I love it here and there are so many things to do: Sightseeing, Mountains, Craft Shops, Rafting, Swimming, Camping, Fishing, and my favorite Carving! So, if you are in the area…stop by my studio for a little look around, and maybe even a little carving demo!
The Gene Webb School of Woodcarving offers many classes throughout the year. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced classes in animal carving, caricature, woodspirit and relief carving. Power and hand carving classes are both available. Gene offers one-on-one classes for those that want the ultimate learning experience. Weekend classes are limited to 12 students so that Gene will be available to guide you step by step in the carving process. Gene supplies the dust collector for the power carvers. If you need to add to your tool collection, the Gene Webb Woodcarving Supply is right below the classroom. We have what you need! On vacation in the Smoky Mountains? Come down for a day class with Gene. Relax and learn in the quiet foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GENE WEBB, TO SIGN UP FOR CLASSES OR TO PURCHASE HIS CARVINGS GO TO:
Contact:
865-660-1110
117 Bear Lodge Dr
Townsend TN 37882
gene@genewebbcarvings.com
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Hey big brother
Been thinking about you lately.
Miss you greatly.