2010 National Caricature Carving Competition

By Randy Landen

Photos by Carl Saahoff

The 2010 National Caricature Carving Competition drew nearly 200 outstanding examples of caricature carving from throughout the country. The competition is designed to promote the art of caricature, and to showcase the diversity of talent in caricature carving from throughout the US and Canada. Hosted by the Eastern Woodland Carvers Club, Inc., in Converse, Indiana, the competition is held each year in conjunction with the Caricature Carvers of America’s annual 3-day carving workshop.

Judges for the 2010 competition were CCA members Peter Ortel, Peter LeClair and Joe Schumacher. Judging took place on Thursday August 26th. The judges had the immense task of considering nearly two hundred phenomenal carvings, and selecting the top entries in 13 individual categories. Ribbons were awarded for the top five places in each category based on originality and creativity, carving execution, degree of difficulty, and final presentation. From the category winners the judges then selected the First, Second, and Third Best of Show. Winners of the 2010 competition were awarded over $2000 in cash and prizes.

This year’s Best of Show was won by Ed Sowulewski from Saginaw, Michigan for his classic caricature piece entitled “The Carvers.” Ed had previously competed in the CCA Competition, but this was his first Best of Show. Second Best of Show honors went to Andy Hoover from Melba, Idaho for his hilarious performance called “It’s Over.” The Third Best of Show was awarded to Bob Cain of Wichita, Kansas for his uncomfortable golfing swing entitled “Drivin a Wedgie.”

The CCA would like to thank our generous corporate and individual sponsors, and the volunteers from the EWCC, all of whom help make this national competition possible. For a list of sponsors, or for information on the 2011 competition go to www.cca-carvers.org or you may contact the Competition Committee Chair, Vicki Bishop at bishop7333@sbcglobal.net or write to her at 1123 W. 6th St., Elk City, OK 73644. There is no fee to enter the competition, and CCA members and their family members are not eligible to compete. The CCA is a non-profit educational corporation.

To visit the 2010 Competition Photo Gallery, click HERE