Student Feature: Bob Perniola
At the heart of Kukstis Woodcarving is the “artist’s journey” Carving Classes. Paul’s Carving Classes have been a fixture of the Studio for years, where novices and experts alike hone their skills creating pieces like no other. Somewhere along the line, whether by design or organically, Paul’s Carving Classes have become a place that fosters growth of all kinds: growth of talent, growth of a love for wood carving, and most importantly, growth of life-long friendships.
In the next few posts we focus on some of the “Usual Suspects” of Paul’s Carving Classes. Join us in the Studio with them as they share some of their experiences and stories! First up, Bob Perniola.
What does a typical class look like?
The classes are as intense or relaxed as you’d like them to be. You aren’t forced to do anything you don’t want to do. You can learn at your own pace and interest. The hazing isn’t too bad, either (that’s a joke).
There’s always great music playing, interesting conversation and the occasional adult beverage! You’re never rushed, nor are you judged or critiqued.
Any favorite things, memories, stories from carving class?
There’s two main things I’ve taken away from the carving classes. The first is an obsession with a timeless, rewarding hobby that I love - woodcarving. The second is the relationships and friendships I’ve made in the classes. It’s not uncommon to have a span of 6 decades worth of ages in a class - people in their 20’s through 70’s. We all have very different backgrounds, but this common interest brings us all together. Because of these carving classes I have new friends I never would have met otherwise. I am lucky to have spent countless hours with these people, at the carving benches or at a dinner party together, all because of the carving classes! That is special.
Any advice to someone thinking about taking a class?
Paul offers something totally unique. Yes, woodcarving classes are unique in themselves, but it’s the environment he has created that makes them special. I always say, “the two and a half hour long classes go by like they are 15 minutes.” Further “Kukstis Woodcarving is my favorite place to be, aside from spending time with my wife and children!” To close with one of Paul’s quotes, “it doesn’t suck!”
What drew you to Kukstis Woodcarving?
For our first anniversary, in 2008, my wife had a “Perniola” quarterboard carved by Paul. It is navy blue with silver, carved whale tail ends. It’s an heirloom piece and adorns our home today. About 6 years ago my wife bought me carving classes for my birthday... and an obsession was born.
What project(s) did you work on as a student?
If there was a catalog of courses at Kukstis University, I may have taken every class. While the items to carve are infinite, I think I may have tried all the major subjects under Paul’s guidance. My first project was a house number sign to match the Quarterboard my wife commissioned a few years earlier. Since then, there’s been endless Quarterboards, eagles (my favorite), whales, house number signs, mermaids, anchors, Santas, swans, lobster claw number signs, and so on.
How did Paul support you?
The instruction Paul gives really enables us to go at our own speed and follow our own paths. Some people love carving letters (me!) and some people have no interest and go straight to folk art. No matter what your desired project is, Paul guides you through that project, from sketch, to carving, to painting and hanging.
As my carving has evolved, one of the thing I appreciate most is his artistic eye. He teaches us the way to get there, but I personally appreciate how he sees things. And, it’s more than just carving, his painting is phenomenal, as is his gilding (applying of gold leaf). He truly is an artist. I’m not laying it on thick, it’s true! From crafting different stains, using different types of paint, to outlining numbers and letters, I often marvel at his painting skills.
