Austin TX

How did you get started in Ice Sculpting?
I had an excellent high school arts teacher who supported my interest in sculpture and was a positive influence in my life. After graduation (2004) I moved from Dallas, TX to Oklahoma City, OK to work with my Uncle, Ken Burkemper, who is a professional Ice Sculptor. I fell in love with the art of Ice Sculpture and never quit. Eventually I moved on to several other Ice service companies in Nevada, California and Texas to gain more experience and grow within the industry.

How many years have you been sculpting ice?
20

What is your most memorable sculpture? And any short story why it was your most memorable.
My "Ice Art Alaska" experiences would have to be my most memorable. With team Captain - Angelito Baban, we won the World Championships in 2019 with a sculpture titled "War Path". Getting to work with such a high caliber team and being successful in our endeavors was something I will never forget.

Have you received any notable awards or recognition in your carving career?
2019 - 1st place at World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks AK

2020 - 4th place at World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks, AK

Ottawa, ON - Winterlude - 2006 - 3rd place

NICA sanctioned Ice Festivals around the USA

Numerous NICA medals

Most memorable location you've carved at?
Fairbanks, AK or Aspen, CO

Is there a particular type of subject or theme that you like to carve?
Anything with style, character and flow.

What do you enjoy most about participating in ice sculpting competitions?
Pushing myself and what I have learned to its limits or beyond and getting to work with talented people in my industry and learn from them.

What advice would you give to someone new to ice sculpting?
Jump in head first and don't quit when it gets hard!! Believe in yourself and most importantly HAVE FUN! Ice Sculpting is a rewarding career that will wear you down but lift you up too!