The roar of a chainsaw echoed through Denver’s Montclair neighborhood in early June as an artist worked on the carving of a 15-foot elm tree trunk. It’s a sound she’s grown used to—Faye Braaten, also known as “Chainsaw Mama,” has been making tree sculptures for 26 years.
“It’s a really fun job, and it keeps you in shape,” she said while taking a break on her final day of carving.
She had the look of an artist, with chaps covered in sawdust and oil, safety goggles, and ear protection. Her tools were carefully lined up in a row: chainsaws of varied sizes, assorted power levels, and different tips for intricate details…