Why parades?

Parades have been a large part of my public presence over the last few years. I had the joy of carving outside “Akron Floral-The Bird’s Nest” when that shop was open, but when it closed I had to get creative on how to show my work. I don’t typically attend craft shows or woodcarving shows in other states, so the parades are where I am in the summer and fall. I see a Parade Float featuring my woodcarvings as a chance to showcase some of my work as a “traveling art gallery of woodcarving.” I even often LIVE CARVE on my moving parade floats! (Dangerous and takes a lot of skill, but sure is fun!) Parade Floats are a great way to celebrate local festivals and of course compete with many other creative folks in the community. My family also enjoys joining me on these adventures. They are a lot of work and definitely cost time and money, but my hope is the exposure brings people joy, brings an awareness of the local carver “Hop Carver,” and leads to commission work and other sales.