Community Articles (listed by posting date)
General News · 1st May 2026
Anuschka Steigemann
We’re excited to introduce one of our first featured carvers ahead of the Powell River competition—local sculptor Volker Steigemann.
Born in Germany in 1958, Volker began his artistic journey early, training as a wood sculptor and studying at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. In 1980, he made the life-changing move to Cortes Island, British Columbia, where his creative practice has continued to evolve alongside a deeply rooted island life.
Over the decades, Volker has blended artistry with hands-on craftsmanship. His work has not been confined to the studio—he has also farmed, raised a family, and built timber-framed homes. Along the way, he has created carved doors and sculptural elements for private residences, each piece reflecting his connection to wood, form, and function.
Since 2007, Volker has taken part in wood sculpting symposiums across Canada and Europe, sharing space with other artists and refining his practice through collaborative, large-scale carving events.
More recently, he has been drawn into the dynamic world of chainsaw carving after attending events in Campbell River. There, he connected with fellow sculptor Clinton Bleaney, a meeting that sparked new inspiration and ultimately led Volker to enter his first competition in Powell River.
We’re looking forward to seeing his work take shape in this exciting new chapter and are proud to highlight his journey as part of this year’s competition.
Born in Germany in 1958, Volker began his artistic journey early, training as a wood sculptor and studying at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. In 1980, he made the life-changing move to Cortes Island, British Columbia, where his creative practice has continued to evolve alongside a deeply rooted island life.
Over the decades, Volker has blended artistry with hands-on craftsmanship. His work has not been confined to the studio—he has also farmed, raised a family, and built timber-framed homes. Along the way, he has created carved doors and sculptural elements for private residences, each piece reflecting his connection to wood, form, and function.
Since 2007, Volker has taken part in wood sculpting symposiums across Canada and Europe, sharing space with other artists and refining his practice through collaborative, large-scale carving events.
More recently, he has been drawn into the dynamic world of chainsaw carving after attending events in Campbell River. There, he connected with fellow sculptor Clinton Bleaney, a meeting that sparked new inspiration and ultimately led Volker to enter his first competition in Powell River.
We’re looking forward to seeing his work take shape in this exciting new chapter and are proud to highlight his journey as part of this year’s competition.