Woodcarving in Malawi

We had a camp site in a place called Chitemba Beach, and with us being here for 2 nights, we had the option of doing some woodcarving with the locals. As Dad likes to do some wood turning, I thought I would give woodcarving a go and see what the outcome was...
Chris, 

Anne and I arrived to our tutor Norman's house at about 9am and were leaving arround 1:30pm. We sat under his mango tree (lovely and shady) watching as he helped us (a lot) to take big chunks of wood and make them into managable pieces, Our works of art began to look quite professional and certainly something you would buy.

We not only got to chisel, but after 3 difference grains of sandpaper, our work was ok by Norman's standards to polish. Any of us would have been happy to keep the carvings rough and unfinished, but as Norman's reputation would be reflected in our work, he needed them to look as good as he would sell them. He took pride in showing us his skills and his family. As we worked, some of the locals came buy, sat and had a chat and also helped us out a bit. Many people contributed to our carvings and they will take price of place in our home. It was also lovely to leave the camping area and see some of the locals in their homes.

Anne made a mask, Chris made a hippo and I made a tokoloshe. Next time, it'll be chairs!