Mike Pietrosante named 2023 Woodcarver of the Year

Pietrosante is a member of the city's woodcarving program, held every Tuesday at the Palm Coast Community Center.

By Sierra Williams
| 9:00 a.m. June 6, 2023

Mike Pietrosante was chosen as the 2023 Woodcarver of the Year for the Palm Coast woodcarving program. Photo courtesy of Palm Coast Parks and Recreation.

Palm Coast Observer
Your Town

Mike Pietrosante has been named the 2023 Woodcarver of the Year for the Palm Coast Parks and Recreation Woodcarving Program.

Pietrosante was awarded a plaque for the honor on May 23 during the group’s regular meeting at the Palm Coast Community Center.

Howard Hawrey, a longtime woodcarver and the program’s former director, chooses the winner every year. Hawrey said he chose Pietrosante for both his skill and his willingness to help others.

“Mike has done a lot of carvings,” Hawrey said. “He’s really progressed over the last four or five years.”

Hawrey said he chooses the award winners based on a quote from Salvador Dali that a true artist is one who inspires others. Hawrey said Pietrosante is always willing to help teach others during meetings, sharing tips and tricks of the trade.

The program meets every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Community Center. Meetings are free for all to attend, but participants must bring their own materials.