Custom Whimsical Wood Carvings
Joseph Mintel
What matters most in a carving is how it lives with you.
It becomes a part of your space,
your rhythm,
your story.
Every good story is full of surprises, and each piece of wood is full of them! Over time I’ve learned how to follow and trust that- how to shape what’s there without forcing it into something it’s not.
Sometimes I’m carving a clear vision that I have, or one that someone brings to me; sometimes I’m letting the wood lead- and responding to what comes through.
Every time, I’m carving mindfully-patiently honing the intention of making something that brings peace and meaning to any home,
I work with wood because it already has a life within it- every sculpture brings a tree back to life, sharing its story and life with ours.
Meet Your Carver
Hi! My name is Joseph.
I’m a New Jersey- based wood carver, drawn to the process of shaping pieces that feel alive- whether they fit in your hand or rise from a full tree trunk.
Before carving, I spent most of my life as a musician and composer. The rhythm, flow, and intuition I found in music naturally carried over into working with wood. Each piece has its own movement to follow- you just have to listen for it.
I carve constantly, exploring both smaller, more intimate pieces and larger chainsaw work as a resident carver at Freehand Custom Carving.
When I’m not carving, I’m usually out in the woods- learning, observing or just wandering- or back home thumping on my banjo
