Live tree carving

I found some amazing pictures of live tree carving and wonder what Ruskin would have thought. There is real skill and craftsmanship here.

I understand that if one carves very shallowly, the bark grows back, hence the effect of this fabulous sculpture of a woman (above).  If one wants to stop the bark regrowing, then one must carve a bit deeper.  It probably also depends on the tree species...

I feel assured that the live trees are not harmed badly.  Care is taken to: not ring-bark; not carve too deeply and ; to ensure the carving is sealed - to stop infection and invasion by insects.

Perhaps the columns of my "spiritual" forest place can be carved by local artists and craftsmen. Indeed, the tree carving iteslf could become ritualistic and a means of bringing the local community together.