Biography

Russ was born in Jasper, Alberta, the son of a fisheries biologist. Living at the Fish Hatchery, on the banks of the Maligne River, he learned to appreciate nature, particularly the wildlife that surrounded the family home. On walks along the river and nearby Lake Edith and Lake Annette, he was taught how to identify the many different species of birds that either lived there or stopped there during the migration periods.

He began carving birds in the early 1990’s and has studied with notable wildlife artists such as Ted Trusz, the late Bob Guge, Jean Minaudier and World Champions, Pat Godin and Jeff Krete. His sculptures, which feature wildfowl, have won awards in juried shows and competitions across Canada’s four western provinces and at the prestigious Ward World Championships.

He was commissioned by the writer and producer of the television show “Decoys” to carve and paint a “Falcated Duck” that was featured in the series. The show aired on CBC’s Gem network.

 

His work includes “decorative” carvings that respect the images of our feathered friends as well as a creative abstract series that are proving to be very popular. His carvings have found homes in seven countries throughout the world.

Russ is a member of the Alberta Wildlife Carving Association. 

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