Stone Bench Project Summer 2025

The Town of Manchester has been selected as the location for the 2025 Stone Bench Project by The Carving Studio & Sculpture Center of Rutland. 

The Stone Bench Project is open to young people ages 13-19. Working as a team, participants will gain a solid skill basis in three-dimensional design, lettering, architectural and sculptural stone working, as well as an appreciation for the industrial history of the Marble Valley region.
The instructor for the class is master sculptor Nora Valdez, who helped initiate the project in Ayacucho, Peru and has taught the group in West Rutland since 2009. Tools and safety equipment for use in the sessions are provided. The workshop is free to selected students and is limited to ten.

Application deadline is May 16, 2025. Students across area schools are encouraged to apply! (Application is below)

Check out the Studio's website here: The Carving Studio Stone Bench Project

PROJECT TIMELINE Mon- Friday 9AM - 3PM [June 23-July 3, 2025]

Week 1 - Design, model- making and assemble components of stone bench
Week 2 - Carving and completion of bench
Final day of workshop - Closing Reception
Date to be determined- Installation and dedication of 2025 Stone Bench.