Local artist, Tom Schlenker learned to work with wood as a young man in Antigua, Guatemala. Antigua, a town dating from the sixteenth century, was at that time filled with elaborately carved furniture, doors, wall pieces, statues and church alters. Tom was most drawn to relief carving – figures and scenes that are flat rather than three-dimensional. Later, Schlenker became an enthusiast of brightly painted wooden toys and masks during time spent in Mexico. Over time, his work has evolved from simple designs and figures to more complex animal and human subjects in detailed settings. All are created by hand with mallet and carved and straight chisels. View Schlenker's portfolio. Contact Schlenker online.