About the Artist
Wayne Shinlever is a native resident of Knoxville Tennessee. Born and raised in Knoxville and currently resides there with his wife Judy. Wayne is a D.A.R.E. Officer for the Special Services Division of the Knox County Sheriff's Department.He has been carving since 1985 and loves it more with every passing year. Not only does he carve for the enjoyment, but he also passes along the craft to others by teaching carving classes. For the last 10 years he has taught at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brass Town, NC. As well as the Tennessee Valley Wood Carver School in Crossville, TN. Also the Wood Crafts Shop in Knoxville, TN. In addition to various private clubs up and down the Eastern coast.
He has won more competition ribbons than he can keep up with. In the National Santa Claus Carving Competition he has received 2 Honorable Mentions in 4 years of entries. However, in 2006 he walked away with the Grand Prize in the competition! His entries into the International Caricature Carvers Competition have earned a 2nd and 3rd best in show.
If you would like more information about any of the classes Wayne teaches feel free to contact him via the information you will find on the Contact Us page. He would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about exploring the world of woodcarving.