Welcome to my chainsaw carving and sculpture school page

Denius James Parson Sculptor

With an eccentric artistic flair, Denius Parson creates sculptures inspired by nature and form. From gargoyles and dragons, fairytale castles to life-size human sculptures, his wood pieces are the result of several chainsaws which he uses with precision to bring detail and life back to the log. The timber he uses comes from sustainable sources. Alongside his wood-sculpting, Denius builds bespoke tree-houses and cabins, and also carves lettering into stone or wood for signage.
Since first moving to Stroud in 1999, Denius has now settled here with his family, creating his sculptures from his home in Leonard Stanley and at his workshop in Painswick. Before settling here, he worked in London and Napier, NZ, as a Waldorf School woodwork teacher, passing on his skills to a younger generation, before deciding to concentrate on his own career as a sculptor.

Chainsaw carving
Denius’ work can be seen around the country, most notably at The Queen Elizabeth Hunting Lodge in London, as well as many other public spaces. He also takes on private commissions, ranging from carving tree stumps in the garden to small sculptures for the home. If you are running an event and would like to attract the public, a chainsaw carving performance is always a good start. Several weekends throughout the year, Denius gets invited for country shows and other festivals, nationwide.
If you are interested in having a piece commissioned, please contact Denius to discuss ideas. 

Sculpture school

Denius offers a variety of workshops from his home and in established art venues. 

Chainsaw carving workshops

If you are interested in learning to used the chainsaw as means of sculpting.  He offers personalised workshops for 1 or 2 people, guided by what you want to learn and achieve. From repairing chainsaws and maintaining these tools to working through the process of creating a sculpture or functional item, such as a stool. All tools, safety gear and materials provided. Suitable for beginners.

Stone carving workshops

An introduction to stone carving, covering different tools and their techniques. Design and transfer a simple design onto stone and carve it in relief. Design ideas will be provided but please bring along any ideas you may have. All tools and materials are provided. Suitable for beginners.

Clay sculpture workshops

A basic one-day clay sculpture course, creating a maquette from air-dry clay, inspired by a variety of natural subjects. Suitable for beginners.

Two day workshops working on larger sculptures, such as complete human figures, with finer details. Working on a provided armature, you will usea set of proportions, accurately transferring two-dimensional measurements onto a 3D model to create form and shape. The second day will focus on adding texture and detail.

Whittling workshops for children and adults from 8 years old.

Denius will teach you traditional hand carving techniques and whittling skills, creating spoons.

For children

Children will learn how to hold the craft knives and whittle a candle stick holder.
Suitable for all abilities. Great for children’s parties or home education.
If your are interested in any of the above workshops please don’t hesitate to email me or give me a ring for more info and pricing..