With just a chisel and a block of bark, Marcel Desilets transforms fallen trees into mythical beings—each one etched with personality, whimsy and imagination.
The Winnipeg-based cottonwood bark carver will be showcasing his creations at the Arnes Farmers’ Market July 19 and 20.
“Carving is one of my creative outlets,” he said. “I have always had a passion for all things mythical, and this led me into carving these creatures into wood.”
Desilets carves wood spirits into bark he collects along the Red and Assiniboine rivers, and also creates canes and walking sticks. His spirits feature a variety of expressions—some have beards, some appear to be peeking out of the wood, and many simply have funny faces.
Express Photos by Katie Wallmuth
The tradition of carving “wood spirits” dates back centuries in European folklore, where it was believed that faces hidden in trees protected travellers and brought good luck.
Desilets has more than three decades of carving experience, all sparked by an encounter with Kenora carver Brock Blosser at the Winnipeg Folk Festival’s Hand-Made Village.
“I remember being completely mesmerized by what he had created—he carved the most amazing wood spirits—and this led me to the work I am doing today.”
Desilets said most of his spirits’ expressions come from his own imagination and are shaped by skills he’s developed over the years. He has no formal training and describes his work as a “learn-as-you-go” process.
“I usually have a plan of what direction I want to take my faces in, but that can always change. Even though I’ve been doing this for many years, I still do a ‘Whoops! Carved too much,’ and that can alter my original plans.”
Each carving takes him approximately two to 10 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the design. He uses a combination of palm chisels and mallet chisels in various sizes—a collection he says has grown to nearly 50 pieces.
“Every time I progressed, I learned that some tools would make things easier than others. So, I just kept adding them to my toolbox.”
Once a carving is complete, Desilets either finishes it with wax or adds paint to give the spirit a pop of colour.
He collects his own cottonwood bark from fallen trees, choosing it for its thick bark and soft consistency. “Overall, it lends itself to be a friendly wood to work with,” he said. Thanks to the nearby rivers, he’s able to find pieces two to five inches thick and up to three feet long.
At this time, Desilets doesn’t offer commissioned pieces, preferring to let his creativity lead the way. However, he’s happy to recommend a friend for anyone seeking a custom carving.
“I just want to enjoy what I do. If I happen to end up selling my items at markets—that’s great, and it adds to the enjoyment of being creative. If people enjoy my work as well, that’s an added benefit and the real icing on the cake for me.”
Desilets shares photos of his work on Instagram @marceldesiletscreative. He’ll be returning to the Arnes Farmers’ Market July 19 and 20 after making his market debut in June, likely for his final appearance of the season.
“Arnes was my first market in many years, and I figured I’d give it a go. It was such a wonderful atmosphere, and I can’t wait to go back again to share my passion with others.”
