Larry Barth’s talent and reputation as bird carver has soared during the 50-plus years since he first picked up a carving knife. He’s been dubbed a “Living Legend” by the prestigious Ward Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the art of bird carving; and Barth has won Best in World at the annual Ward World Championships 19 times, more than any other artist. He will be at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Tuesday, Oct. 7 and Wednesday, Oct. 8 to share his art, his talent, and his insights and observations as the Gilley’s People-Nature-Art presenter for October.

“It’s a thrill and an honor to host Larry Barth here at the Gilley,” says museum director Sean Charette. “ He is the best in the world at bird carving and we were founded to honor Southwest Harbor native Wendell Gilley, who was nationally renowned in his time for the realistic quality of his carvings.”

On Tuesday, Oct. 7 there will be a public artist’s reception at 6 p.m. followed by a presentation at 7 p.m. by Barth about the deep connection between his work and the natural world. On Wednesday, Oct. 8 Barth will give a live demonstration, creating a screech owl in clay and talking about his artistic process.  All events are free, but registration is required. Sign up at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org/calendar.

Barth is “incredible at communicating things” in sculpture; he “takes away anything unnecessary” and leaves the feeling or essence of a natural scene,’ says Pat Godin, a contemporary of Barth’s and also a multiple-time winner of the Ward’s Best in World championship.