The annual Powell River Logger Sports carving competition is a vibrant celebration of creativity and craftsmanship in the coastal community of Powell River. This year's event, held from July 8 to 12 on the upper Willingdon waterfront, showcased the talent of local artists who transformed logs into stunning sculptures. The competition was a fierce battle of artistic prowess, with each carver bringing their unique vision to life over just three days. The judges had a challenging task, but ultimately chose three winners who impressed with their elegant and creative designs. Kamron Garbe took the top prize with his piece titled "In the thick of it," inspired by the mission statement of the local clothing/design company Thick. The second prize went to Shea Larking, whose dragon sculpture captured the imagination of onlookers. Stephanie Penner secured third place with her heartwarming depiction of a mother moose with her calf. The winners received substantial cash prizes: $5,000 for Garbe, $3,000 for Larking, and $2,000 for Penner. This event attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom travel specifically to witness the competition. The Powell River Logger Sports team expressed gratitude to organizer Laura Passek for her dedication in making the event a success. This competition not only showcases the artistic skills of local carvers but also contributes to the community's cultural fabric, attracting visitors from near and far. It's a testament to the power of art to bring people together and inspire awe and appreciation for the beauty of nature and human creativity.
