Chain saw artist entertains people at new Menards
Legendary chain saw artist John Gage quickly turned a solid four-foot log into a wonderful sculpture of a bear Tuesday during the grand opening of Menards Mega Store in Vernon Hills.
Gage, from Two Harbors, Minnesota, has been creating wooden sculptures of eagles, owls and gnomes the past few days as he represents Poulan Pro & Jonsered chain saws as part of the grand opening.
"Menards has been hiring me for 24 years for these grand openings," Gage said after framing a log into an image of a bear. "I make six of these everyday using a chain saw. I make one and then I (talk) with the people and tease the kids for a little bit and then I move on."
People watched Gage carefully carve delicate details, asking questions about his techniques, and about the art pieces and their availability for sale.
The store opened Sunday to begin an eight-day grand opening celebration with Menards giving away more than $20,000 in prizes.