About

We, as a group of artists, woodcarvers, and woodworkers have organized the Desert Woodcarving Show & Sale for the purpose of education, promotion, recognition, and acceptance of woodcarving, wood sculpture, and woodworking as an art form.

We at Desertwoodcarvers.com strive to make the experience of working with wood both fun and rewarding. Gaining knowledge of woodcarving as a hobby or profession can be exciting and fulfilling as well as profitable. The Desert Woodcarver group encourages and promotes public displays and competitions for woodworkers, wood sculptures, and/or other wood artists. We sponsor the Desert Woodcarving Show annually, along with the associated seminars and classes, to educate the public, to provide an opportunity to exchange ideas to advance the carvers’ talents. We particularly try to encourage youth and novice carvers in their efforts. We hope that our promotion of close camaraderie along with the exchange of ideas and techniques will benefit the carving community and the community as a whole. Above all we strive to provide a fun social learning environment on the first and third Saturday of each month at the Pyle Community Center next to the Tempe History Museum

(809 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, Arizona 85282)

One Yearly fee of only $25.00 gives you access to both the Desert Woodcarvers Association and The Grand Canyon State Woodcarvers Inc. Becoming a member gives you discounted rates on advertising and entrance fees to the annual show in February of each year. Contact Bobby Gray for details. (480-) 323-8981

Upcoming Exhibitions

Explore our calendar of upcoming events and exhibitions, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the artists, witness live demonstrations, and discover the stories behind each unique piece. Join us as we celebrate the beauty of handcrafted art and the enduring passion of our talented community.

Explore our Collection

Dive into our extensive collection of wood carvings, each one a testament to the skill and artistry of our featured artists. From intricate sculptures to functional home decor, our gallery offers a diverse range of pieces that will captivate and inspire you. Let your imagination soar as you immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Desert Woodcarvers.

Our History

The History of Grand Canyon State Woodcarvers.

In July 1987 a small group met at the home of Tom and Jean Gilbreath to begin the formation of a new woodcarving club. Thelma Casanova, Henry Gatewood, , Tom and Jean Gilbreath, and Don Pickett agreed on the necessary action and took the steps needed to get the club started. They decided to name the club Grand Canyon State Woodcarvers using a popular state nickname to reflect the intent to serve carvers throughout the state of Arizona. Tom agreed to be president , Don vice president, Thelma as secretary, and Jean as treasurer until December. On December 3, 1987 the first election was held and everyone who was already in office was elected with the exception of Jean who did not wish to continue. Jim Spoor volunteered to serve as treasurer and was unanimously elected. The first Board of directors were Henry Gatewood, Harlan Jackson, Lloyd Johnson, Madaleen Pulsifer, and Eleanor Smith.

The Grand Canyon State Woodcarvers Inc.:

The Grand Canyon State Woodcarvers, Inc. meets the 2nd Saturday of the month at the Granite Reef Senior Center located just north of McDowell Road on Granite Reef in Scottsdale. Meetings start at 9 a.m. and end with the last one out the door, usually about 2 or 3 p.m., turns out the lights. 

 For more information contact:
 Chairman:

John Miklos  

602-840-9186

Co-Chairman:

Bobby Gray    

480-323-8981

Arizona Woodcarvers Association:

The Arizona Woodcarvers Association meets the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month at 9 a.m -12 p.m.. The Pyle Center located just west of Rural Road on Southern Avenue in Tempe.


For more information contact:  
Chairman:

Bobby Gray

480-323-8981