As the wall rose, we had deep conversations and simple, technical ones. The challenges of raising kids today. How much “banter” (or back lean) you want for every foot of height on a dry stack wall. The toll that being behind a computer and sitting at a desk takes on our bodies; and conversely the toll that being a stone mason as a career takes on one’s body. For mortar work like our wood stove surround project, find and set your corner pieces first in the front-facing plane. On day three, we discussed the importance of keeping traditional crafts alive and thriving with instructor Ian. Q: Why do you think its important that people continue to teach and learn traditional skills and crafts? A: Our world seems to be ever increasing in speed and complexity with this digital revolution. The more we live digitally, the more we lose of the physical and tactile nature of our world. I think that’s what the resurgence in these old crafts and trades is all about. People are drawn to it because of what it offers them. Whether it’s masonry, carpentry, farming—it all keep us connected to the physical world that we’re in. We have physical bodies, we have to live in the physical world and we’re almost forgetting how. Q: Do you see a resurgence in people wanting to learn traditional skills and crafts like masonry? A: Yes, I see a lot of new interest. More so people wanting to learn it to do things on their properties than take it on as a career. The generation ahead of me in my craft has aged out, and there still aren’t enough people to take over for those retiring. But I think a wave of craft and trades career interest is in the near future. Q: Why do you think that is? A: The pendulum swung hard into the digital world, and I think we’re seeing it swinging back. Because people finally realize we’ve lost something.
Instructor Ian discusses mortar work. Below: Years-old decorative mortar work.
They have a gut feeling that they’re missing something but may not be able to put their finger on what it is. Also, people in the trades are seeing a surge in demand, surpassing white collar jobs in some areas. Some of that may have to do with AI and automation. Stone masonry is one of the only trades left out there that still has a bit of artistry to it. We have a bit of creative freedom, which is unique. Floating on Picketts Lake that evening, I realized just how lucky I was to have a week away to focus on learning a new skill. We built something that may outlast us with our hands, using what the earth provided, and shared the process with an incredible group of people.
ELY, MN ARTS & CULTURE JOURNAL
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