Michelle Thevenot (Durell) is nature-inspired artist based in Osler, SK, Canada. She specializes in chainsaw carved sculptures in rustic logs, wood power carving, and handcrafted natural fur garments.
Michelle grew up in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and studied Art Education at the University of Saskatchewan. Her artistic background originally focused on painting and drawing, but she craved a more tactile experience in the visual arts. Sculpture and textile arts developed as a progressive challenge to try new things and to connect with natural resources.
Michelle’s ancestral Scandinavian-Canadian family roots are historically tied to the forestry and fur trades which inspires her connection to the land and sustainable use of natural resources. Michelle creates in her “free time,” which is a precious commodity in addition to life’s adventures. Besides art, her days are filled as a work-from-home Mom balancing office time, modern homesteader tendencies, property development projects, hunting, trapping, fishing, and other wilderness excursions.
Interview with Michelle Thevenot
Michelle Thevenot Artwork
Website: michellethevenot.com
Instagram: @michellethevenotartwork
Facebook: Michelle Thevenot Artwork
What kind of artwork do you create?
I create wildly unique wood sculptures carved with chainsaw and power tools.
What first drew you to your medium?
I embrace the unique, natural characteristics of the wood – inclusive of organic shapes, growths, cracks, weathering, aging, and irregularities. These features guide artistic interpretation and influence natural changes over time, making the sculptures a co-creation between artist and wood. People and wood are alike – we have imperfections, we age and weather over time, we crack under stress, we are shaped differently, we are one-of-a-kind… this tells the story of growth, resilience, and what shaped us into who we are today. A personality of raw, authentic, inclusive acceptance emanates from the wood and those that embrace it.
Where did you learn your craft?
Wood sculpture emerged as a self-taught adventure. It began with a rotary tool and scraps of lumber, but I quickly grew frustrated working on small scale. My art style in previous paintings also gravitated towards “go big or go home.” That’s when I started eyeing up my husband’s chainsaw and a dead tree outside. Having never operated the chainsaw before, it was formidable. I mustered up my girl-power determination and resourcefulness to learn how to do it safely, then I marched outside to successfully cut down the tree. A portion of that tree then became my first attempt at carving a bear cub. Sure, it was a little rough for a first try, but the sense of accomplishment set my soul free, and I knew chainsaw carving was meant for me! I kept practicing, experimenting, learning as I went to develop my authentic carving style. I’m now 4 years into my sculpture journey which has been met with wonderful support from fans and collectors alike.
What is the inspiration behind your work?
I am personally drawn to power carving as a celebration of female empowerment in an unconventional and highly challenging art form. This unique art form resonates with my need for physical expression. The intensity of chainsaws and power tools serves as a grounding outlet for my sensory processing differences and highly sensitive nature. Inspiration comes from the connection between human nature and wild nature. The sculptures often feature favorite animals and plants that make life so interesting and vibrant in the region. The sculptures reflect vibrant personality, cherished wildlife memories, and a passionate outdoor lifestyle.
What do you hope people will gain from interacting with your work?
My sustainably-sourced log sculptures are for nature-lovers who appreciate the warm, grounding energy of wooden elements around them. The wood carvings appeal to people who want to stay connected with cherished wilderness memories. My sculptures are for those looking to enhance their space with eye-catching pieces that delight, honor wildlife, and inspire conversation. They deliver meaningful connections with nature into homes, cabins, parks, and businesses.
How do you get through artist’s block?
When I feel uninspired, low energy, stressed, or overwhelmed, I seek out solitude in nature. My favorite place to go is an off-grid camp at the edge of the northern provincial forest. By immersing myself in the grounding energy of nature, it clears my mind. I’m inspired by the stories, lessons, and close encounters observed in the wilderness. The forest is my deep connection to nature that regulates, inspires, teaches, and renews creativity.
