From Storm to Sculpture: Mike Ayers’ Carved Mountain Man Honors WNC’s Strength
- Echoes of the Forest
- May 13
- 2 min read
With our first "Echo" unveiling on June 12 in front of Foundation Woodworks in the RAD, we're just getting started. We have an exciting lineup of future “Echoes” with talented Asheville woodworkers—and the venues are already secured! Now, we need your support to bring these next powerful transformations to life. That’s where YOU—and internationally renowned chainsaw artist Mike Ayers—step in.
About the Mountain Man Sculpture
To help financially support our artists and bring future "Echoes" to life, internationally acclaimed chainsaw artist Mike Ayers of Mountain Mike’s Whetstone Woodworks in Maggie Valley has crafted a 2 ft. tall lifelike, one-of-a-kind sculpture from a walnut tree salvaged in Canton, NC after Hurricane Helene. Inspired by the storm itself, this powerful piece was crafted exclusively for Echoes of the Forest. With wind and leaves swirling around a steadfast mountain man, the sculpture embodies the enduring spirit of Western North Carolina—resilient, rooted, and rising.
About Mike Ayers, Chainsaw Artist
Mike Ayers discovered his chainsaw carving talent when his uncle dared him to carve a bear. His first attempt took two days and didn’t meet his expectations—but a neighbor saw potential and bought it. That spark of encouragement launched a passion that turned into a career. Today, Mike holds a world record for carving 38 bears in a single hour.
At his shop in Maggie Valley, Mike Ayers turns massive tree trunks into striking works of art with nothing but a chainsaw and imagination. A seasoned competition carver with global acclaim, Mike creates lifelike sculptures from locally sourced wood—ranging from native wildlife and historical icons to superheroes and custom commissions. Whether working on-site or carving standing trees, he brings each piece to life with precision and passion. Visitors to his workshop can explore a diverse collection and even witness the carving process firsthand from a safe distance.
Enter to WIN Mike’s Mountain Man Sculpture:
One lucky winner will be announced at the Radical Hotel after the June 12 Echo unveiling as well as LIVE on Facebook.
Supporting a Great Cause!
All proceeds benefit the artists of Echoes of the Forest, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit transforming fallen trees into lasting public art across WNC.
Support craft, creativity, and the beauty of nature—grab your raffle tickets today! Every entry supports our artists and helps revitalize Western North Carolina. Enter as many times as you’d like—every $10 raffle is an entry.
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