Stone carving at West Riding Stonecarving Association

Vicky Smith
Courtesy of West Riding Stone Carving Association

Stone carving at West Riding Stonecarving Association, West Yorkshire 29 May 2021 — 1 December 2022 Entrance is free — Visit now

Few crafts have shaped human history quite like stone carving; from the Palaeolithic creation of tools to the petroglyphs that form some of our earliest art.

Located at the base of the chimney stack in Shaw Lodge Mills – once used to manufacture moquette cloth for the hard-wearing seat covers on public transport – the West Riding Stonecarving Association is dedicated to keeping the art of hand-carving stone alive and bringing it to the general public. Anyone can try a free introduction, which includes a tour and practical session, while those looking to take their knowledge further can book onto an eight-week introductory course including basic relief carving techniques and safe workshop use, with subjects spanning Yorkshire roses to the legendary Green Man. The Association also hosts events throughout the year, from soap-carving with children to regional exhibitions, and is involved with worldwide events like European Stone Carving Festival; held at Halifax’s Piece Hall in 2022.

The organisation was launched by builder John Swift, who said building in the area ‘necessitates being a mason’ and was inspired to sign up for a City & Guilds stone carving course at Calderdale College along with co-founder Andrew Bramley. It celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2020 and is also something of a family affair, with John’s sister Helen (also club secretary) amongst the tutors. Members, meanwhile, span novices to master masons.

The focus on hand-carving makes dust and noise minimal when compared with using machinery, and many students have commented on the de-stressing nature of courses here. What’s more, you’re likely to use Tadcaster magnesium limestone, a stone often used for the maintenance of York Minster. Often wondered how the detail on this Gothic masterpiece was created? Now you can discover for yourself.

Stone carving at West Riding Stonecarving Association, West Yorkshire 29 May 2021 — 1 December 2022 Entrance is free Visit now

Where to go near Stone carving at West Riding Stonecarving Association

Pride & Provenance
Halifax
Restaurant
Pride & Provenance

This hidden gem can be found tucked away in Horton Street’s Piece Mill and is an artisan lover’s delight.

Meandering Bear
Halifax
Restaurant
Meandering Bear

Owned by the folks who run the award-winning Grayston Unity, the Meandering Bear is a great little independent bar and eatery in Halifax.

The Piece Hall
Halifax
Tourist Attraction
The Piece Hall

Think Somerset House meets one of the great historic squares of Europe for the North. The Piece Hall is the beating heart of Halifax.

Square Chapel Arts Centre
Halifax
Square Chapel Arts Centre

With a mix of shows, family theatre, films, events and workshops, this arts centre is a vital part of Halifax’s new and thriving cultural quarter.

Revo Records, Halifax
Halifax
Shop
Revo Records

Trading for over 30 years, the iconic shop prides itself on stocking an eclectic selection of vinyl records – the latest new releases alongside second-hand vinyl.

The Lantern, Halifax
Halifax
Music venue
The Lantern

An independent live music venue and bar within the town of Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Halifax Borough market
Halifax
Shop
Halifax Borough Market

This grand and historic market was opened by the Duke and Duchess of York in 1896 and has been at the heart of Halifax life ever since.

What's on: Activity

Until
ActivityManchester
DJ Gym at Hatch

Learn some DJ and production skills with DJ Gym Manchester, based in the culturally infused surrounds of Hatch.

from £269
life drawing
Until
ActivityManchester
Life Drawing Manchester

Whether you have never put pencil to paper or have been honing your artistic skills for years, Bee Creative studio runs life drawing sessions for people of all abilities.

from £10
Until
ActivityLiverpool
Old Dock Tours, Liverpool

The Old Dock tour is a treat for younger and older visitors alike, fans of Liverpool’s maritime past, and anybody curious about local history.

£8.50 with concessions
Until
ActivityManchester
Sí Manchester Daily Tour

Sí Manchester’s daily tour is a brilliant way to get an overview of the city with tours running in both English and Spanish.

free entry

Culture Guides

Teenage Dads
Music in Manchester and the North

Fresh concert seasons, forward-thinking festivals and a revolving door of amazing gigs. Things are looking bright as spring comes into view.