Welcome to Carving the Tide!

A blog dedicated to celebrating life down east, the art of decoy carving, and the timeless traditions of our family. Born from a deep connection to the coastal landscape and the skilled craftsmanship passed down through generations, our blog is a window into the world of the Guthrie family. Here, every carved decoy tells a story of heritage, passion, and the enduring spirit of a community that lives in harmony with the tide.

Whether you’re an admirer of handcrafted decoys, a lover of coastal lore, or simply someone who cherishes family and local traditions, you’ll find something to inspire and engage you. Our journey is not just about art; it’s about a way of life that has been lovingly nurtured over time, and we invite you to join us as we share the legacy of eastern North Carolina!

The Guthrie Family Legacy

Passed down from father to son (and enriched by every new generation), the art of decoy carving symbolizes our bond with nature and the unyielding spirit of a people who respect the past while embracing the future. Every curve carved and every detail chiseled into our decoys is a testament to the skill, patience, and passion instilled within our family and community alike. This blog is our platform to honor our community and share our personal stories with you. Click here to read about the story behind the family!

Cliff Guthrie: The Artisan and Visionary

Born and raised in the beauty of the coastal landscape and drawing inspiration from the sound and sea, Cliff Guthrie is the cornerstone of our family and the lead artist behind the craft that we share here at Carving the Tide.

His journey into decoy carving began as a personal exploration into the art of appreciating the local wildlife through craftsmanship. Though his work Cliff has enriched and instilled life in the keeping the art and tradition of the local community alive. His work reflects decades of dedication, a passion for preserving a dying art, and the patience of someone who understands that true artistry takes time. Cliff’s commitment to the craft has set a standard for excellence and authenticity in our family. Click here to read more about his decoy carvings and designs.

Michelle Guthrie: The Heart of the Family

Michelle Guthrie is the nurturing force that anchors our family. Beyond supporting the day-to-day endeavors of our craft, Michelle is the storyteller who preserves our family’s memories and traditions. Her role transcends the background—she is the guiding light that ensures every decoy, every family gathering, and every shared memory reflects our deep-rooted love for each other and our community.

With a keen eye for detail and an innate ability to capture the spirit of down east living, Michelle has been instrumental in transforming our family’s history into a living narrative. Whether organizing family reunions, chronicling our adventures, or offering a comforting word during challenging times, her influence is woven into the very fabric of our tradition. Her grace and resilience have kept our family united, and her passion for our heritage shines through in every story we share. Michelle’s contributions remind us that behind every piece of art is a heart that beats with love, determination, and an unyielding commitment to our past and future.

Ethan Guthrie: The Adventurous Spirit

Ethan Guthrie embodies the adventurous spirit that has always defined our family. Growing up surrounded by the rugged beauty of the coast, Ethan developed an innate curiosity about the natural world and the stories etched into every carved decoy. As the eldest son, he has embraced both the legacy of his father’s craftsmanship and the call of modern innovation. Ethan’s passions include ballet, which he currently does as a professional with Cincinnati Ballet’s 2nd company, classical music, and fishing and hunting.

Ethan’s journey is one of exploration—a blend of traditional techniques and fresh, creative ideas. While he respects the time-honored methods passed down through generations, he is unafraid to experiment, bringing new perspectives to the art and arts which the family is enriched by. His enthusiasm for learning and his willingness to push creative boundaries have not only enriched our family tradition but have also set the stage for its evolution. Ethan represents the perfect balance between honoring the past and forging a path toward the future, ensuring that the Guthrie legacy continues to grow and inspire for generations to come.

Piper Guthrie: The Creative Soul

Piper Guthrie infuses our family’s legacy with vibrant creativity and a fresh artistic vision. From a young age, Piper had a keen eye for detail and a natural talent for design. With a passion for capturing the subtleties of coastal life, she transforms everyday moments into works of art that resonate with the beauty and complexity of down east living. Pipers passions include ballet, piano, painting (especially seashells form the Carolina coast), and all things down east seafood.

Her creative energy is evident in every innovative idea she brings to the table. Piper sees the world through an artist’s lens—finding inspiration in the beauty of our local nature. Piper’s contributions are a celebration of artistic expression, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, and reminding us that creativity is the soul of our heritage.

Sonny Guthrie: The Young Innovator

Sonny Guthrie, the youngest of our family, is a burst of energy and optimism—a living testament to the power of curiosity. His enthusiasm for learning and natural curiosity set him apart as a bright innovator with endless potential.

Even as he embarks on his own creative journey, Sonny is deeply connected to the roots of our tradition. His fresh perspective and willingness to embrace new ideas bring a dynamic quality. Whether he’s experimenting with modern techniques or simply absorbing the stories of his elders, Sonny’s passion for life and his respect for our past promise a future where our legacy continues to evolve. His vibrant spirit not only enriches our family narrative but also inspires those around him to see the beauty in change and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

Looking Ahead

Carving the Tide is more than a blog—it’s a living narrative of family, art, and coastal life. As we celebrate our past and embrace our future, we invite you to join us on this journey. Explore our stories, appreciate the artistry of our decoys, and become part of a community that cherishes the simple, enduring beauty of down east living.

Thank you for being a part of our journey as we continue to carve a future!