Judy Bigwood is a self-taught artist who makes her home in Colborne, ON, Canada. On the environs of this picturesque village, you will find this phenomenal, artistic woman surrounded by samples of her award winning creations.

For over 30 years, Judy used oils to express her love of art on canvas and as a muralist. She has also taught the art of sketching and painting to 42 children (on a rotational basis). Due to health issues she was unable to continue in these artistic forms. During her daily walks in the surrounding countryside, her artistic eyes recognized the enticing forms found in cedar tree roots filling the local fencerows. Purchasing a hand held power tool she started experimenting and, using her inventive nature, began designing and building specialty tables from these roots. Again she was forced to stop due to the heavy weight of her chosen medium.

Determined to continue her artistic flare, Judy discovered she could release the life of varied woods hidden deep within. In November 2001 she began carving her captivating creations, with her main interests in animals, human figures and relief carvings.

Using basswood for her painted pieces (because of it's ease to work with) allowed her to combine both her love of painting and carving. Butternut brings its rich colour for her natural wood pieces however she prefers cherry and walnut for its' colour and strength in holding the finest detail without breaking.

Persuaded by friends and family, she hesitantly entered her first competition (TheBuckhorn Arts Festival, 2004) and was humbled to discover that every single entry won an award. (see Competition / Awards) Two years later, the 2006 Buckhorn Fine Arts Festival honoured Judy with a Best of the Show for her relief carving of a covered bridge and welcomed her to the Master's category in woodcarving.

Commissioned to create specialized pieces, her magnificent carvings are proudly displayed across southern Ontario and as far away as British Columbia, Canada. Judy is a member of the Ontario Woodcarvers Association, the Affiliated Wood Carvers Limited and has been a guest speaker at Quinte Carvers Association. For more information see Chip Chats magazine March-April edition (Volume 53, Number 2).

Story and poems by Janice Chapman of Chapman's Quill Tip back to top