WEARS VALLEY, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Adventure Center) — Visitors traveling through Wears Valley may spot a roadside collection of handcrafted wooden bears, eagles and other wildlife carvings. But the display offers more than a chance to take home a Smoky Mountain souvenir. It also gives visitors an opportunity to watch the art take shape.
J.R., the woodcarver behind Nature’s Wood Carvings, has spent about eight years developing his craft. What began as a hobby has grown into a full-time business, with a location where visitors can browse his work and watch him carve.
J.R. spent 22 years working in the construction industry before making the move to woodcarving full time. He has operated at his current Wears Valley location for three years.
The work is largely self-taught, fueled by a passion for the outdoors and the wildlife found throughout the Smoky Mountains.
One of his biggest sources of inspiration is Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Jr. said he and his family enjoy visiting the area, where encounters with bears, eagles and other wildlife often provide ideas for future carvings.
He sometimes photographs animals during those visits and uses the images as inspiration for his handcrafted pieces.
Visitors can see a variety of carvings displayed throughout the property and watch Jr. work as he creates new pieces.
Nature’s Wood Carvings is located at 3707 Wears Valley Road, next to Mountain Brothers General Store.
The location also offers several nearby stops for visitors, including Mountain Brothers Brewing Company and a sweet shop known for its fried pies.
For those exploring Wears Valley, the carving stand offers a chance to experience a little local craftsmanship while taking in the character of the Smoky Mountain community.
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