"It is challenging and satisfying to create wildfowl with wood and paint. When I carve I think about every bone and feather, and the relationship of each bird to its own environment. Every bird has its own character."
William Hazzard
William Hazzard's introduction into the craft world was fortuitous; his success, though, has been remarkable. As a young man, Hazzard enjoyed sketching the wildlife of rural Saskatchewan, where he grew up. Many years later, during a long and confining convalescence in 1972-73, Hazzard looked for work to occupy his hands. He began to sketch birds in the field, study stuffed mounts and bird skins, and emulated the wildlife carvings of Bernie Smith, a talented local craftsman. He taught himself woodcarving and perfecting his skills was his goal.
With less than four years of carving experience, he was coaxed into submitting some of his work to the international carving competition in Maryland. Hazzard left with fifteen ribbons in the novice class of wildlife carving. Since those early days, he has been awarded a roomful of trophies and plaques, and his carvings have travelled the globe.
Every year the Bill Hazzard Memorial Award is given for Best in Show, Junior Carving & Sculpture at the Saskatchewan Wildlife Art Show and Sale.
Selected works
