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Intricate Hand-Carved Wood Creations by Dennis McNett

Brooklyn-based artist Dennis McNett carves into large pieces of wood and transforms their surfaces into energetic characters and dynamic ocean waves. His colorful works sometimes combine two creatures – like wolves and snakes – and the results are incredibly imaginative and often fierce looking. McNett depicts the sharp teeth of a leopard in minute, impressive detail.

These unique pieces are hand carved, and they start with McNett drawing the design directly onto the wood. Then, using tools like a gouge, he cuts into the surface and creates patterns that mimic fur, waves, and the veins on leaves. Everything is painted once the carving is done. McNett adds bold colors and eye-catching black outlines to stylize his works and give them a fantastical, cartoonish feel.

As a child, McNett was encouraged in art making. His blind grandfather repeatedly told him that his drawings were good, and it was a catalyst for his later career. Now, he's been carving wood for over 18 years with no signs of stopping. His Instagram showcases works in progress and newly-finished pieces.

Dennis McNett website and Instagram
via [Lustik]

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled 'Embroidered Life' that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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