Immerse yourself in the timeless craft of stone carving and bring to life the iconic Green Man in this inspiring two-day workshop with experienced stonemason Alex Macey.
Guided step-by-step, you’ll learn how to carve this ancient symbol of nature, growth and renewal, developing your design as it gradually emerges from the local sandstone. Using traditional tools and techniques, Alex will show you how to shape form, add texture, and create depth and relief -transforming raw material into a striking, characterful piece.
Alex trained as a banker mason and has over 18 years’ experience working on heritage buildings, carving intricate architectural details and restoring historic stonework. His teaching is relaxed, supportive and deeply rooted in traditional craftsmanship, making this an ideal environment to learn and explore.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to slow down, work with your hands, and connect with a heritage skill in a meaningful way.
By the end of the two days, you’ll leave with your own hand-carved Green Man and a solid foundation in stone carving techniques.
All tools and materials are provided.
Suitable for beginners and beyond.
What to expect
Time at ArtisOn is designed to take you away from it all and provide the environment, the time and the guidance you need to create. You can expect a warm welcome, skilled and friendly tutors plus the chance to meet like-minded people keen to share ideas and experiences. You can even leave us to clear up the mess! There will usually be two workshops going on and we encourage everyone to mingle and be nosey about what the other workshop is up to.
Arrive in time to meet other participants over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits before beginning your session at the appointed time. There will be a mid-morning break for refreshments and a chance to talk over progress with others. Lunch is usually around 12:45 for about 45 mins – you can expect a homemade 2 course lunch. The main course will be delicious but don’t overdo it as the puds are usually worth waiting for! There will be a further afternoon break with the most wonderful cakes from Roots & Fruits Home Bakery, a North Yorkshire micro-bakery producing handmade bread and cakes. All food and refreshments are included in the price of the workshop.
Finish time is given as a target – there are occasions when the session may overrun so do let us know if you need to be away promptly.
We aim for your day to be a real treat… of course you could always learn a new skill in a shed or a draughty village hall with a curly sandwich, but we want you to have more fun than that! So we make it a day being looked after, with good food, good company and great inspiration!
What you’ll need to bring with you
Please wear warm clothes you don't mind getting messy/dusty and closed toe, sturdy shoes.
