I began carving in the early 1990's, while on a canoeing trip down Harry's River. Harry's River is located on the west coast of Newfoundland, Canada. While camping overnight along the river, I decided to cut a walking stick to help get around the river while salmon fishing.

Sitting around the camp fire that night I could see images of wildlife in the stick I picked up along the river. I took out my hunting knife, and began carving the stick to reveal them.

Since that day, my life has travelled the same path using the material the creator has given me. I simply look at a piece of material and carve away until I can share with others what I see.

Carving sticks was a very old tradition of the Mi'kmaq, native peoples of Western Newfoundland, and Canada's Maritime provinces.

As a proud Mi'kmaq person, I became interested in how these sticks, traditionally called Aptums, were used. Aptums traditionally were used to record the history of a family, clan, or tribe and were pasted down from generation to generation.

At this time many of my family members were involved in reviving our spiritual and traditional ways. I embraced this movement, using my art skills to produce many traditional objects.

The Mi'kmaq in our area have always retained our traditional ways of living on the land, and did not lose their connection with the land or the animals. This connection and respect for all of creation was the inspiration for my art in the beginning and still is today.

Art work began taking up all of my time, so I decided to make it my living. I sold pieces locally and to tourists. My work evolved into antler carvings and larger sculptures.

As I became more recognized as an artist, I was approached to be a part of larger projects across the province.

I also became involved with international art exhibitions and solo exhibitions. One company requested I create rustic furniture for their lodge. This was done with my carving skills and knowledge of wood working. Several unique pieces were made in the process and the company was very pleased with the end result. Now, much of my work revolves around the creation of rustic furniture.

My art has given me many great experiences as well as direction and purpose in my life. That one stick on the river has taken me on a wonderful journey. One in which I would like to share with others. This website is a tool to help me achieve that goal.

If you have any questions, please call me at: 709-647-3053 or drop me an email at:

rusticcreations@nf.sympatico.ca

Thank you and all the best,

Scott Butt