#82 Stephan Zenz on Project Quiver
Available on these platforms: Spotify | Anchor | iTunes | PocketCasts | Stitcher | Radio Public | Overcast
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Available on these platforms: Spotify | Anchor | iTunes | PocketCasts | Stitcher | Radio Public | Overcast
Stephan Zenz is a bowyer and teacher of nature and wilderness skills in Austria. Having spent more than a decade working behind a camera in the media industry, he now follows his passion of leading men's work and helping children flourish in the wild.
“There’s nothing more than being alive and outdoors.”
Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Stephan Zenz.
Episode Links:
https://www.instagram.com/nativwerk_stephanzenz/
Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions
Summary:
Explore the inspiring story of a multi-talented bowyer, photographer, and wilderness teacher transitioning across professions to embrace a life rooted in nature, craftsmanship, and community. This episode offers insights into traditional bow making, outdoor education, and personal growth through creative pursuits.
Show Notes:
Stephan shares how his career shift was driven by a desire for authenticity and connection with nature
Discussion of different woods used in bow making, especially osage, yew, black locust, and rattan
Insights into the tools and methods for crafting bows, including tillering and eyeing the grain
The importance of patience and focus in the craft and personal transformation through working with natural materials
Details about bow making workshops, gatherings, and retreats in Austria, fostering community among bowyers
Stephan describes his journey into wilderness survival, teaching kids survival skills, and leading group adventures
The influence of outdoor experiences, caves, and mountaineering on his artistic and personal life
Tips for photographing bows and wildlife, emphasizing natural light and perspective
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Stefan’s diverse career: bowyer, photographer, wilderness teacher
02:01 - Stephan’s background in media and transition to outdoor education
04:08 - The process of building bows: materials, tools, and challenges
09:03 - How Stefan started bow carving with a fascination for archery
15:12 - Harvesting bow staves and sourcing materials in Austria and abroad
17:10 - The origin of Stephan’s business, Nativwerk, and focus on community
20:20 - Kids' wilderness programs and outdoor survival skills
22:23 - Personal insights into working in a grandmother's barn workshop
24:01 - Photographing bows and wildlife: techniques and equipment
27:27 - Organizing and leading bowmaking gatherings and retreats
28:45 - Exploring traditional weapons like atlatl and spear throwers
33:34 - Building and finishing a Hooper-style bow: design, painting, and sinew backing
47:34 - Favorite bow woods and tools
52:18 - Working with materials like rattan, horn overlays, and natural dyes
64:40 - Stephan’s experience with over 40 bows made and ongoing challenges
70:28 - Lessons learned: patience, focus, and connection to materials
71:56 - How their shared passions continue to foster community and personal growth