Bob "Sieg" Siegel, JR - Klompen Maker
(Woodenshoe Carver)
Sieg is the last master woodenshoe carver in America - He currently has 2 men starting apprenticeships.
Credentials:
Learned the craft in the Netherlands in 1975, 1981 & 1987 from twelve of the most skilled carvers.
Diploma from the Netherlands Woodenshoe carving school.
Featured on the P.B.S. TV series "The Woodwright Shop" and in many major papers, and in "Fine Woodworking" Magazine.
Demonstrated Klompen Carving at dozens of events, including: International Festivals in Boston, Detroit, Chicago, Toledo, St. Paul, Milwaukee and Indianapolis. Dutch Festivals in Illinois, New York, Teas, Virginia, Wisconsin and Washington. Busch Gardens Festival, Williamsburg, VA. Dollywood theme park, Pigeon Forge, TN. Neiman Marcus Holland Promotion, White Plains, N.Y. Marriott Hotel Holland Fest, San Diego, CA.
Historical Summary
In the lowlands of Europe over the past five centuries, woodenshoes evolved from the sandal, because solid wood keeps feet dry and clean. They are called Klompen in the Netherlands (Because of the Klomp Klomp sound on brick streets), Holzschuhe in Germany and Sabot in France. Three million pair are still made each year from handcarved models, of Aspen, a biodegradable and renewable resource. About a half million people wear Klompen each day.
Celebrating the St. Nicholas custom, children leave carrots in Klompen at night, for his white horse. This benefactor of children, then leaves gifts for the well behaved.
Personal Summary
Initial interest was sparked by discovery of a set of antique woodenshoe carving tools, in 1969. Sieg carves two or three pairs a day, starting with a fresh cut Aspen log. The craft is not just maneuvering the three primitive tools, but in efficiently and accurately shaping the wood to fit the foot. Sieg enjoys carving because of a desire to help preserve these nearly extinct skills, his wife's Dutch Heritage, and the opportunity to meet many interesting people.
More information:
Phone Sieg at (262) 242-1571
or write him at:
Crafts Museum
11458 N. Laguna Dr.
Mequon, WI 53092
Here are some Pictures of Sieg
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