“I couldn’t draw a stick man when I was young,” says Rob Cochrane. “And art in high school didn’t interest me. I didn’t really take an interest in carving until the 90s, and it became a whole new career. I love my job.”
When Rob Cochrane asked a friend to show him how to carve duck decoys, he had no idea that it would evolve into a career in art. He mastered decoys, but very quickly he wanted to try his hand at something different, so he took some deer antlers that were stored in his garage and taught himself how to carve those, experimenting with different tools to refine his technique. Then a friend brought Rob a moose antler and asked him to carve it – his first commissioned piece! And that set him on a whole new path, one that would give Rob the freedom to explore – and express – his innate artistic talent.
“Well before YouTube instructional videos, I just paid attention to what other creators were doing, and how they did it. Guess something stuck!”
Since those early days, Rob has expanded his materials to include wood and soapstone, the latter as a result of spending time in the Canadian Arctic, observing and learning from traditional Native carvers. He transforms these simple, natural media into stunningly beautiful works of art that have garnered many awards and ribbons at carving competitions in Ontario. His pieces have been displayed and sold in art galleries and gift shops in Northumberland, Muskoka and beyond – including Gros Morne Park in Newfoundland – and have found homes across Canada, in several U.S. states, Europe, the U.K. and Australia. His hobby had turned into a full-time job, and by the early 2000s he could barely keep up with demand.
Previously a resident of Cobourg and Baltimore, Rob and his wife Barb moved to an idyllic 200-acre property east of Roseneath, where his garage became his workshop. Their home is a showcase of his artistic creations and Barb’s hand-hooked rugs and wall hangings.
He attends fewer events these days, so we are thrilled that Rob has accepted our invitation to NFOTA’s “Works in Progress” event in Warkworth.
“I’m very impressed with what the Festival of the Arts is doing for artists in our community. The opportunity to work at a table and show people what I do – that’s pretty special!”
Come and see Rob demonstrate how he uses natural materials to create art for the ages. For a sneak preview of his work, visit his website at antlerstoart.com or Instagram at theantlerguy. But be sure to take time to visit all the artists’ demonstrations at the Works in Progress event, Warkworth Town Hall, September 14, 11:00-4:00. Tickets are not required; NFOTA will gratefully accept donations at the door.
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