Masonry Magazine April 1998 Page. 34
Stone Cutting
In light of the monument mania that has hit Washington D.C. recently, Northern Virginia Community College's (NOVA) Manassas Campus couldn't have picked a better time or place to introduce its Stone Carving and Restoration Program.
Officially implemented last August after several years of planning, NOVA's Stone Carving Program was established through the generosity of local businessman Harold C. Vogel, a master stone carver, international consultant, and former president of The Carving and Restoration Team of Manassas. Vogel was concerned about the lack of artisans today who possess the skills required to maintain and restore the many buildings and monuments nationwide and especially in the nation's capital, and he worked hand-in-hand with NOVA to establish its new program.
When NOVA began its fall semester in 1997, Stone Carving I was part of the Manassas Campus's curriculum, taught by Constantine Seferlis, long-time friend of Vogel's and fellow master carver. Both men, two of only a few master carvers in the United States, have worked on numerous projects in the District, including the National Cathedral.
NOVA's Manassas Campus Offers Stone Carving Symposium
The Manassas Campus of Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) will present a one-day stone Carving and Restoration symposium entitled "The Rational Use of Natural Stone," on Friday, June 12, 1998, from 8:00-4:30. Anyone interested in learning more about working in this age-old medium is invited to attend.
Described as "an introduction to working with stone for architects, artisans, and artists," the event will give participants the opportunity to learn from internationally known master stone carver Harold Vogel. Vogel was the impetus behind NOVA's Stone Carving program, which was introduced last August, and is increasing in size each semester to meet the demand of individuals interested in learning this timeless art form. At the June 12 symposium, Vogel and his team of experts will provide a broad overview of working with stone through demonstration, discussion, and student participation. Continuing education units are available to those completing the symposium.
The registration fee is $200 for those registering before May 12. After that date, the fee will be $225. The first 25 individuals to register will receive copies of The Recommended Practices for the Use of Natural Stone in Construction, by Alex S. Gere, who will participate in the symposium.
NOVA's Manassas Campus is located at 6901 Sudley Road, just off of Interstate 66 and Highway 234 in Prince William County. Washington Dulles International Airport and numerous accommodations are available nearby. To register or to obtain more information, contact Mac Tredway at nvtredm@nv.cc.va.us or (703) 257-6634.
34 MASONRY-MARCH/APRIL, 1998