Bob Cisko sketched out this unique Uncle Sam several years ago, then put the sketch aside until recently. The finished basswood carving is 9 inches tall by 4 inches wide. The pointing arm is an add-on, as are the flag and staff. The flag is aluminum flashing, cut to 1–1/8” by 2–1/4”, light sanded and painted prior to the waves being added. The flag was then fastened to the dowel with epoxy. The photo gallery includes views of all four sides, as well as a pattern and sketch.
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Bob (Moose) Cisko has been interested in art and cartooning all of his life. He got his first taste of woodcarving in 1999 while on a family outing to Dollywood, which included a carving exhibit and show. This, as Bob puts it, “lit a fire.” Further encouraged by his wife Peggy, Bob started carving and was hooked forever.
A move from Tennessee back to Maxville, FL and several back surgeries forced him to set aside carving for a while, but with his wife’s encouragement, Bob once again picked up his knives and has barely put them down since.
Bob is mostly self-taught, but has been influenced by carvers such as Gary Falin, Phil and Vickie Bishop, Chris Hammack and other CCA members. He has been truly inspired by the work of Lynn Doughty.
Bob’s advice to others about this wonderful hobby of woodcarving? “Never give up and don’t worry about mistakes. I have learned through many a trial-n-error, to find a place where I am comfortable. Remember to keep your knives and gouges sharp, and practice, practice, practice.”
To visit Bob’s woodcarving Facebook page, click HERE.