A Morning Spent with Sheffield based Woodcarver and Silverpoint Artist Nick Hunter

I recently discovered Nick Hunter on Instagram, a Sheffield based carver, specialising in intricately whittled birds of all shapes and sizes. His work is delicate, unique and therapeutic to the eye. Upon following him, I instantly felt an appreciation for his craft - each bird full of expression and personality, almost as if I was looking at the real deal. In addition to his carvings, Nick also specialises in Silverpoint drawing. This is a skilful approach to sketching where the artist uses a silver stylus on specially prepared paper. Again, this is a delicate technique and allows the artist to pick up on every little detail of their subject, leaving a fine metallic sketch as a result. So when Nick followed me back and got in touch with a request to draw Alan, I of course jumped at the chance.

I’ve come to visit Nick’s workshop - an outhouse situated in a peaceful spot in the hills just on the outskirts of Sheffield. When I walk in I’m greeted by vibrant red-breasted Robins, Curlews, Song Thrushes, peeping Owls and mischievous looking Sparrows. It’s an Aladdin’s cave (or should I say aviary). Some birds haven’t developed their feathers yet …. or their eyes … or their beaks. They are just freshly carved bodies, but are still just as beautiful as they wait patiently to come to life with colour and personality. Nick tells me about the wood that he uses. He’s developed a good eye for sourcing Elm, a robust piece of wood with a beautiful signature grain.

As we chat in Nick’s workshop, I ask if I can take pictures of him at work and so, he chips away at a Robin (I think), his most popular and well-loved out of all the birds. I’m still noticing heart warming aspects of Nick’s work, like the humorous phrases added to the base of some of his birds. One of them reads, “Even lovely things poo", a funny little touch, which is made even more delightful when you turn the bird around.

And so, I’m soon presented with Alan. The silverpoint sketch that Nick has drawn for me. It instantly takes my breath away. The attention to detail, the look in his eye. It’s Alan alright. Even when I photograph the sketch, it’s as if I’m photographing Alan. His much better behaved, perfectly still twin. It’s a work of art, captured from one of my favourite photographs and will take pride of place on the wall. It will be cherished forever.

If you’re interested in a private commission by Nick, whether it’s a wood carving or a silverpoint pet portrait, why not use your favourite image from your Pet Stories shoot?! You can visit his website for more information.

Depending on the dog breed, Nick even specialises in 3D wooden pet portraits (like the carved birds).