Wood-carved puma crowns artist from Neltume at Huilo Huilo

Amid the temperate rainforest of southern Chile, the sound of chainsaws and chisels gave way to a new edition of the international wood sculpture competition at the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve. After three days of live work, sculptor Jorge Fuentealba, a native of Neltume, took first place with a piece inspired by the figure of the puma.

The competition brought together 26 artists from different parts of Chile and abroad, who carved large coihue logs to represent the native fauna of Patagonia. The works were developed in full view of the public, in an experience that blends artistic creation, tourism, and environmental education.

The jury highlighted the expressive power and technique of the winning piece, in an edition marked by the high level of participants. "Each year it becomes more challenging, because the proposals are bolder and the artistic standard rises," Fuentealba commented after receiving the recognition.

The event is promoted by the Huilo Huilo Foundation, an organization that seeks to promote the conservation of the natural environment through cultural initiatives. Its executive director, Rodolfo Menichetti, valued the continuity of the competition and its impact on the community.

"This contest not only highlights the talent of the sculptors, but also brings people closer to biodiversity and raises awareness about its care," he stated.

The organizers also emphasize the symbolic meaning of the gathering. The founder of the reserve, Víctor Petermann, highlighted that the activity represents the evolution of the territory, where forest exploitation once predominated.

"Today, wood is no longer seen only as a resource, but as part of a story that transforms into culture and conservation," he expressed.

The second and third places in the competition were awarded to Argentine artists Leonardo Avalis and Yasimel Kucharczuk, respectively, while the public prize went to Ariel Soto, from San José de la Mariquina.

With this new edition, the contest reaffirms its place as one of the most relevant wood art gatherings in the south of the country, combining tradition, creativity, and a strong connection with nature.