The DSWAC has been been around for 25 years now and whilst we still continue to teach students the craft of dry stone walling each year, and take on a number of pragmatic projects; building and repairing traditional dry laid stonework, we are now transitioning from emphasizing the basic techniques, (where the focus has been mostly on internationally accepted styles, purposes and methods of construction) towards a bolder, more artistic approach where we will be exploring and posting some of the newer innovative installations in stone.
Discerning clients are often pleased to see us push the boundaries of the craft and create unique structures and sculptures in stone, ( made without mechanical fasteners or mortar) Whilst these are usually private commissions, often constructed with local stone from the property, some projects are purposely erected in areas where the public will not only see the finished piece, but often enjoy seeing the work as its being built.
The website will begin to take on this fresh vision, and many of the skilled wallers whom I have been privileged to work each year, will be represented here too, in photos of the new installations with essays and discussions of where we see the craft going.
If you are interested in knowing more about what’s going on, please check back here in the near future.
John Shaw-Rimmington john@dswac.ca