Transformations on the Shore 2025

Driftwood Carving Festival in Campbell River

Picture this: an unsuspecting log on the foreshore, poised to unveil its hidden beauty. As chainsaws hum and driftwood takes shape, a transformation begins—an annual spectacle that merges artistry with the Pacific shoreline's natural backdrop. But what exactly awaits you at Frank James Park from June 25–29, 2025? Let’s dive in.

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Event Overview

What: Transformations on the Shore – Driftwood Carving Competition
When: Wednesday, June 25 – Sunday, June 29, 2025 at varying times daily (carving 7 am–7 pm; Sunday 7 am–10 am)
Where: Frank James Park, 2084 S Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC
Admission: Free

What to Expect

Live Carving Action

Be mesmerized as professional, amateur, and novice woodcarvers transform raw logs into intricate sculptures before your eyes.

Artist Interaction

Talk to the carvers, learn about their methods, tools, history, and the stories behind their designs.

Post‑Event Auction

On Sunday post-10 am, marvel at and possibly bid for carvings—75% of proceeds go to artists, and they also keep what they sell on-site.

The Story Behind the Festival

Founded in 1997, the event grew from a local uproar when artist Max Chickite famously carved “Octy” the octopus from driftwood—and then restored it after vandalism, inspiring a city‑wide celebration of driftwood art. Since then, thousands of visitors have come to watch driftwood logs metamorphose into breathtaking artworks along the Sea Walk and in Campbell River parks.

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For Carvers

Log Selection & Start Time

When the adventure begins:
Carvers draw their logs on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, and the official carving kicks off at 7 am sharp on Wednesday, June 25.

Safety First

Protect yourself before you carve:
All carvers must provide their own personal protective equipment: hard hats, chaps, goggles, steel‑toed boots, hearing protection, gloves, etc. — safety gear is mandatory on-site.

Policy Highlights

Know the ground rules:
• Every carving remains the property of the organising society.
• Chainsaws operate between 7 am–7 pm daily, with Sunday carving ending at 10 am, followed immediately by the auction.
• No alcohol, commercial advertising, or unsupervised assistants allowed within the safety zones.

Stipend & Proceeds

Earn while you carve:
Each participating carver receives a $1,000 stipend. At the auction, participants keep 75% of the final sold price for any carved piece.

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Visitor Tips & Extras

✓ Best Viewing: Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for watching progress and speaking with artists.
✓ Bring: A hat, water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes to stroll along the Sea Walk.
✓ Stay Awhile: Enjoy the backdrop of Discovery Passage and the Coastal Mountains right over the water.
✓ Ideal For: Families, art lovers, photographer enthusiasts, and anyone curious about woodworking magic.

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Why Visit?

Unique Art in the Wild

It’s art in progress—not a polished gallery.

Community Spirit

Celebrates Indigenous, local, and visiting artists in an unforgettable outdoor studio.

Free, Public, and Accessible

No tickets needed—just your curiosity and presence.

Supporting Culture

The event fosters tourism and supports the Campbell River Shoreline Arts Society.

Schedule at a Glance

Date	Schedule
June 24	Log draw & site set‑up
June 25–28	Live carving from 7 am – 7 pm
June 29	Carving 7 am – 10 am, followed by the live auction

Date

Schedule

June 24

Log draw & site set‑up

June 25–28

Live carving from 7 am – 7 pm

June 29

Carving 7 am – 10 am, followed by the live auction

Don’t Miss This Driftwood Transformation

Transformations on the Shore is more than just a festival—it's a five-day celebration where nature, creativity, community, and coastal history come alive. Whether you’re drawn by the rhythmic buzz of chainsaws, the chance to watch wood come to life, the opportunity to bid on original carvings, or simply the tranquil beauty of Campbell River’s seaside, you’ll leave with a renewed sense of wonder—and maybe even a one-of-a-kind memory in hand.
So mark your calendar, charge your camera, and prepare to experience the unexpected. Share this unique June event with fellow travellers—because art, shorelines, and transformation await at Frank James Park.
For more information, visit crshorelinearts.ca.

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