Georg Demetz Pilat

The cribs maker

• Georg is continuing the family tradition of wood carving
• He lives in the wonderful Gardena Valley, in the Dolomites
• He carves the Swiss pine, “cirmolo”

Georg Demetz Pilat was born in 1962 in a family deeply rooted in the arts: his great-grandfather and his father were both woodcarvers. He is continuing the hundred-year-old family tradition of wood carving. "I never thought about doing anything else, I’m so happy when I work in my bottega: woodcarving for me is almost a hobby." After attending the Art Institute of Ortisei, he had the possibility of learning the trade from different master sculptors. In 1987, he completed the qualification of "maestro scultore” and since then he has worked in his own workshop in Ortisei, a village surrounded by steep Dolomite peaks with truly impressive views. He appreciates every day the quality of life that this business guarantees him. "If you are your own boss, you make your own hours," he says.

Interview

©Georg Demetz Pilat

©Alexander Demetz

How long does it take to carve a sculpture?

It depends on the size of the object. It usually takes me about four to six weeks, for a medium sculpture with three figurines. But to construct, sculpt and refine a detailed crib – nativity scene – it could also take longer, up to three months.

Which kind of wood do you prefer?

I carve the Swiss pine, called “cirmolo”, it is the best wood for carving small objects. The tree grows in our mountains, between 1,500 and 1,900 metres altitude. It’s very scented: people say that smelling its scent will extend your life. This means that my life will be well over 100 years.

Is your craft linked to the place where you live?

Absolutely. I live in Gardena Valley, in the south-eastern part of South Tyrol. Ortisei, my village, is known for crafts and unique sculpture works. In this area, woodcarving tradition has lasted for more than 300 years. In ancient times, the people here were both peasants and woodcarvers.

What was the most satisfying moment of your career?

Aged 25, I had to carve two big angels, with their huge wings, for a church. I worked harder than ever. My neighbour was a professor in the art school, so he recognised good woodcarving. He told his sons – who were artisans like me – to come and see my angels, because they were really beautiful.

Georg Demetz Pilat is a master artisan: he began his career in 1984 and he started teaching in 1990

Works

©Georg Demetz Pilat

©Georg Demetz Pilat

©Georg Demetz Pilat

©Georg Demetz Pilat

©Georg Demetz Pilat

Where