In the heartland of Oklahoma, a remarkable artist is carving his niche in the world of chainsaw art. Meet Fernando "Don" Dulnuan Jr., a full-blooded Igorot hailing from Ifugao, Philippines, and currently based in the USA. His artistic journey is deeply rooted in the cultural tapestry of the Cordilleras, known for its centuries-old tradition of wood sculptures and the awe-inspiring Banaue Rice Terraces, dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World."
Chainsaw Alchemy: Turning Logs into Masterpieces
Dulnuan's medium of choice is unconventional yet awe-inspiring - the chainsaw. With recycled logs as his canvas, he transforms ordinary pieces of wood into extraordinary sculptures. His repertoire spans a diverse array, from majestic wolves and bears to the soaring spirits embodied in eagles and Native American totem poles. Each piece tells a story, a testament to the cultural richness embedded in his craft.
Showcasing Artistic Prowess: A Spectacle at the Oklahoma State Fair
In 2018, Dulnuan captivated audiences at the Oklahoma State Fair with a live chainsaw art show. Onlookers marveled as he skillfully wielded his chainsaw, carving a hunk of tree into a lifelike bear.
Dulnuan expressed, "In our tribe, they do a lot of wood sculptures... I just think my family has it."
The demonstration not only showcased his technical prowess but also underscored the raw, visceral connection between the artist and his chosen medium.
Origins of Passion: A Transcontinental Spark
Dulnuan's journey into wood carving ignited when he moved to the United States. The allure of wood, coupled with an intrinsic need to reveal the hidden beauty within, spurred him to explore the world of chainsaw carving.
Dulnuan shared his sentiment, saying, "I like wood. When I see some wood lying around that says this is all free, I said, 'There's something in them that needs to come out.'"
His story resonates with the universal human connection to nature and the transformative power of artistic expression.
The Self-Taught Maestro: From Online Tutorials to God-Given Talent
Remarkably, Dulnuan is entirely self-taught. In an era of formal education, he turned to the internet, absorbing knowledge from online resources to grasp the nuances of chainsaw carving.
Reflecting on his journey, Dulnuan revealed, "I just trained myself. For me, let's put it this way, it's a God-given talent that right now it's showing. I don't know where it came from, but I know it came from God."
With a touch of humility, he attributes his exceptional talent to a divine source, referring to it as a God-given gift that has manifested in his extraordinary craftsmanship.
Diversifying the Artistic Horizon: Cowboys, Indians, and Aspirations
Beyond the realm of wildlife, Dulnuan has expanded his artistic portfolio to include busts of cowboys and American Indians. Expressing a desire for formal training, he envisions himself evolving not only as a chainsaw sculptor but also as a performance artist.
Dulnuan affirmed, "I want to do this my whole life until I cannot hold a chainsaw anymore. I like this. It's always different. I like to encourage myself, to improve myself, and do all this. I have more ideas I want to go through with the wood."
His commitment to constant self-improvement and a hunger for new ideas propel him towards uncharted territories in the world of wood artistry.
A Lifelong Dedication: Chainsaw Symphony Continues
Fernando "Don" Dulnuan Jr.'s dedication to his craft is unwavering. He envisions a lifelong commitment to chainsaw art, expressing a determination to continue until the day he can no longer hold a chainsaw.
Dulnuan encapsulated his passion, "I like wood. When I see some wood lying around that says this is all free. I said, 'There's something in them that needs to come out.' So, that's where I started."
The ever-changing nature of his work and the continuous challenge to improve drive his passion, creating a dynamic narrative that unfolds with each stroke of the chainsaw.
Conclusion: Carving Legacies with Chains and Wood
In a world where tradition meets innovation, Dulnuan stands as a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression. From the verdant landscapes of the Cordilleras to the bustling fairgrounds of Oklahoma, his chainsaw art transcends borders, weaving stories of heritage, self-discovery, and relentless passion. As we witness the symphony of chains meeting wood, Dulnuan invites us to see beyond the surface, where the ordinary transforms into extraordinary, one masterpiece at a time.
