28/05/2026
Our improver stonemason, Clive Redley, attended the European Stone Carving Festival in Freiburg, Germany. Every year, stonemasons and carvers gather from around Europe for this two-day event to celebrate the living art of stone and connect with like-minded craftspeople.
Participants received a 300 x 200 x 200mm block of local red sandstone and were tasked with interpreting the theme 'diversity in the garden.'
For his interpretation, Clive depicted a bird bath featuring a pair of cuddling robins and a Glis Glis (European edible dormouse) climbing up the side of the bowl, inspired by wildlife commonly seen in the Taplow workshop yard. Following the competition, he enjoyed a spectacular tour of Freiburg's Münster (cathedral), hosted by its stonemasons.
The festival also provided a fantastic opportunity for Clive to meet stonemasons of similar ages and career stages, compare notes, discuss ideas for the future of the craft, and learn more about different conservation approaches.
“Attending the EU stone is one of the highlights of my year. It's a great opportunity to meet with craftspeople from all over Europe, exchange ideas, catch up with friends old and new and enjoy a beer together.”
