Tooling and Carving “Transforming Raw Stone into Lasting Tributes”

Episode 3

Host: Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, The Johns-Carabelli Co. Semerano Monuments & Flowers

Guest 1: Sculptor AC Button II founded Carolina Sculpture Studio in 2003, extending his family's unbroken USA heritage in granite excellence since 1891. Button's work in stone sculpture began with family apprenticeship under his cousin as they worked under Master Sculptor Gary Sassi at Celestial Memorial Sculpture Studio in Barre, VT. As a Journeyman, he moved south and established Carolina Sculpture Studio following the retirement of in-law and Master Sculptor Dario Rossi in nearby Elberton GA. Button’s popular YouTube channel features the Virtual Stone Carving Apprenticeship series currently on video 133. At youtube.com/@carolinasculpturestudio/

Guest 2: Steve Kaczmarczyk,  Shop Manager at Hunt Memorial where has worked for 11 years although he has worked making monuments for 31 years.

Guest 3: Stan Mullins is CCO – Chief Creative Officer at Stan Mullins Art Studio headquartered in Athens, Georgia. In the last quarter-century, Stan has created thousands of works of art in multiple mediums.

Guest 4: John Theis has been a dedicated member of the Coldspring team for an impressive 43.5 years, contributing his expertise across all areas of granite fabrication. For the past 33 years, he has specialized as a stone carver and sculptor, crafting intricate designs and sculptures on projects both large and small. With his deep knowledge and skill in working with a variety of granites, he has played an integral role in creating lasting works of art and craftsmanship.