Fred Schlatter is a sculptor, designer, and master woodcarver whose work bridges fine art and architectural craftsmanship.
Trained as a fine artist and sculptor, Schlatter is widely known for his hand-carved wood signage and architectural carvings. His work has appeared in publications including Country Living, Sunset Magazine, National Motorist, and SignCraft Magazine.
For more than three decades he has produced commissioned carvings for private residences, visitor centers, restaurants, corporate projects, and yachts. His work includes carved architectural elements, figureheads, doors, murals, and sculptural wood pieces.
In addition to commissioned work, Schlatter creates sculptural objects that explore the expressive qualities of wood grain, carving, and form. His work often reinterprets familiar objects and design traditions through the discipline and patience of hand carving.
My work grows from a lifelong interest in craftsmanship and the expressive character of materials.
Much of my professional life has been devoted to architectural carving and handcrafted signage, projects where design, lettering, sculpture, and woodworking all intersect. Working with wood requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of how grain, structure, and form interact.
In my sculptural work I often draw inspiration from objects of design, particularly classic automobiles. These machines were originally created for speed and engineering performance, but when their forms are translated into wood they take on a different presence. The shapes slow down, the grain becomes visible, and the object becomes something more contemplative.
Carving allows me to explore both discipline and creativity. Each piece reveals something new about the material and the relationship between design and craftsmanship.
