Stumptown Carving logo — Johnny Kimball riding Hanz with chainsaw
“Let's do good, together.”   •   “Your home should say something about you!” — Barbara Rose (Artist Johnny Kimball's beloved momma)   •   “Let's do good, together.”   •   “Your home should say something about you!” — Barbara Rose (Artist Johnny Kimball's beloved momma)   •   
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Embracing AI as a Carving Artist: Tools, Not Threats

Johnny Kimball March 30, 2026
Embracing AI as a Carving Artist: Tools, Not Threats

I know what you’re thinking. “A chainsaw carver writing about AI?” Hear me out.

AI Is a Tool, Not a Replacement

A chainsaw is a tool. A grinder is a tool. A staining brush is a tool. And AI? It’s just the newest tool in the workshop.

I use AI to help me visualize concepts before I pick up the saw. When a client describes their dream piece, I can quickly generate reference images that help us align on the vision. No more “I imagined something different” moments.

How I Use AI in My Practice

  • Reference Generation: Creating visual concepts from client descriptions
  • Composition Planning: Exploring different poses and angles before committing to a log
  • Wood Selection: Analyzing grain patterns to predict how stain will take
  • Business Operations: Writing proposals, managing scheduling, and communicating with clients more efficiently

Teaching the Next Generation

I’m especially passionate about introducing AI tools to young artists. Not to replace their creativity, but to amplify it. A kid who can sketch can now also create photorealistic concept art. That’s not scary — it’s magical.

Through our work with Trajectory NW, we’re incorporating AI literacy into forestry and arts education. Because the future belongs to those who can work with technology, not against it.

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