Blaine Gunkel: Breathing New Life into Trees with Chainsaw Art

Blaine Gunkel, a retired craftsman, has found a remarkable second act as a chainsaw artist, turning dead trees into stunning sculptures that bring joy to communities across the Pacific Northwest. Since moving to Ocean Park, Washington, four years ago, Blaine has made a name for himself with his awe-inspiring carvings, an extraordinary talent that blends artistry, precision, and passion.

A Chainsaw Hobby with Heart

Blaine picked up chainsaw carving as a hobby a decade ago, but it has become much more than just a pastime. Approximately 40% of his sculptures are donated to charities, benefiting causes ranging from autism awareness to community health programs. Whether it’s a bear, eagle, or whimsical woodland creature, Blaine’s sculptures carry the spirit of giving and have become cherished symbols in the towns they inhabit.

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Giving Back through Art

Some of Blaine’s most heartwarming stories reflect his commitment to the community:

Dental Office Gift in Long Beach: Blaine surprised a local dental office with a custom carving, bringing smiles to staff and patients alike. The piece quickly became a centerpiece of the office and a testament to his generosity.

Nursing Home Carving During COVID: During the isolation of the pandemic, Blaine brought joy to a nursing home by creating a piece specifically for the residents, reminding them they weren’t forgotten during such challenging times.

Ilwaco Strong Donation: Donated a Crab carving at the Ilwaco Crab Crawl Fundraiser.

Showcasing Talent and Spreading Joy

Blaine participates in 15–20 carving shows annually, traveling to events like the Sand and Sawdust Festival in Ocean Shores and the Granite Falls Autism Fundraiser. His first show of the year, Burning Bear in Ocean City, is a favorite, featuring fierce competition and camaraderie among carvers. YouTube features videos of his work, including a three-minute clip from a small show in Tokeland, showcasing his incredible talent in action.

Memorable Moments

Blaine’s carvings aren’t the only things that captivate audiences. Stories of him wielding a chainsaw on stage with a local band or carving 20 festive bears for a “Christmas at the Beach” event highlight his vibrant connection to the community. His creativity extends far beyond traditional carving competitions, creating moments that resonate with people of all ages.

Follow Blaine’s Journey

Fans can follow Blaine’s adventures and upcoming shows on Facebook, where he regularly updates his schedule and shares the joy of his work. His dedication to art and charity is an inspiration, proving that retirement doesn’t mean slowing down—it can mean finding new ways to make a difference.

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Blaine Gunkel’s chainsaw carvings are more than just wood transformed; they are pieces of art infused with community spirit, kindness, and a deep appreciation for life. Whether you’re admiring his work at a fair or marveling at a carving donated to a local cause, Blaine’s creations remind us all of the beauty that comes from giving back.