Parkland County 2009 Art Acquisition Program recently selected Allan Waidman's Black Chlorite Bear to add to the County Art Collection. The competition had over 100 entries. The selected piece is approximately 20 inches long and has been carved in a contemporary style from black B.C. chlorite stone. Piece #91055 has been donated to the ELVES Society for their 2009 fall charity auction. Interested in learning how to carve in soapstone? Learn from the best and attend carving classes taught by Allan Waidman. See what everyone is saying (or contribute your feedback) at Allan's Blog April 16 & 17, 2010 Fri 6:30pm-9pm, Sat 10am-4pm Soapstone Carving for Beginners This is an introductory soapstone carving course in which we will create a bear from start to finished product. Always fully booked and a lot of fun. All tools, equipment, etc., provided. Call Devonian Botanic Garden, University of Alberta, for details and registration at 780-987-3054. Space is limited. June 27, 2010 Soapstone Carving Boot Camp A fun full day of carving and working with soapstone. This class will cover all aspects of soapstone carving, soapstone repairs, try new ideas. Working outdoors and in the company of fellow carvers and a few beginners. Good time for a refresher! All tools provided, soapstone will be available for purchase as well. Call Devonian Botanic Garden, University of Alberta, for details and registration at 780-987-3054. July 23 & 24, 2010 Fri 6:30pm-9pm, Sat 10am-4pm Soapstone carving - Intermediate Pre-requisite is that you must have taken the Soapstone for Beginners course previously. This course will introduce you to additional carving techniques, other types of stone, bigger pieces, etc. This is an advanced course and may require that you to finish the project at your own time at home. Call Devonian Botanic Garden, University of Alberta, for details and registration at 780-987-3054. Classes are typically offered every fall and spring, however, please contact us for further details and be sure to check the website often for updates. View Allan's latest work at the upcoming Alberta Craft Council's events.