2009 Traditional Arts Apprenticeships
Decoy Carving

• Fred Dolan, Strafford, master artist – $2,885
• David Kittredge, Newport, apprentice – $867

Fred will begin by introducing David to the history and evolution of the decoy, the regional differences in style, and the works of the early masters. Fred will spend some time on the importance of observing postures of wildfowl in natural settings and creating forms that mimic these. Fred will then move to the carving aspects of a traditional floating decoy including the traditional rigging. They will cover the various types of wood that can be used, the finer techniques involved in carving, and use of hand tools. The last stage of the apprenticeship will cover painting techniques.

Fred Dolan with one of his carved decoys.
Photo by Lynn Martin Graton

"Decoy Carving is related to cultural heritage in that it is an unbroken link to a past that dates back more than 1,000 years in this country alone. Decoy carving continues a chain of living history, links us with nature and with tradition." -- Fred Dolan, 2008

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Last updated: October 15, 2008