Bongo Love’s Montana chainsaw championship snub sparks debate

Zimbabwean-born, Colorado-based chainsaw artist Bongo Love was noticeably absent from this year’s Clash of the Carvers International Chainsaw Carving Championship in Libby, Montana, sparking questions among fans and fellow artists.

The annual event, held from September 10 to 13 and organised by the Kootenai Country Montana Non-Profit Organisation, brings together some of the world’s top chainsaw sculptors who transform massive logs into intricate works of art.

For years, Bongo Love had been one of the championship’s recognisable faces, earning admiration for his creativity, technical skill and energetic performances. However, this year he was left out of the line-up after not receiving an invitation.

The celebrated artist said he felt unfairly excluded from the competition.

When approached for comment, organisers gave a brief response, saying: “Hi, thanks for contacting us. We’ve received your message and appreciate you reaching out.”

The response has done little to address concerns from supporters, many of whom questioned the decision given Bongo Love’s history with the event and his reputation in the global chainsaw carving community.

On social media, fans voiced their disappointment, with Kim Kaiser Dupree questioning the omission of Bongo Love and another respected competitor, writing: “No Chris Woods? Or Bongo. Bongo is the best!”

Ang Chris Hamilton Williams also shared disappointment, saying: “No love for Bongo?? I just spoke to Bongo. He said he was not invited and was not given a reason. He has been at the event since it started. Shame! Not sure I will attend. We really enjoyed Bongo.”

Others supported the organisers’ move to introduce new talent, with Bonnie Edmundson commenting: “Nice to see new faces!”

While some welcomed fresh competitors, others argued that introducing new artists should not come at the expense of established names who have contributed to the growth and popularity of the championship.

Bongo Love’s absence comes against the backdrop of an inspiring artistic journey that began in Zimbabwe. Born and raised in the country’s Shona sculpting tradition, he started carving at the age of eight under the guidance of his grandfather. Working with limited resources, he developed his craft using improvised tools before later moving to Boulder, Colorado, in 2000.

His transition into chainsaw carving came after he discovered a competition in Craig, Colorado. Despite having no experience with chainsaws, he entered and completed his first piece, beginning a career that would see him become one of the respected figures in the discipline.

Since then, Bongo Love has earned international recognition, including podium finishes at major competitions in Canada and Germany. He has also created large-scale sculptures for homes, parks and municipalities, while showcasing his work through his Colorado art space, The Front.

Known for his versatility, Bongo Love has often said he does not limit himself to one speciality.
“I don’t have a speciality. I can do anything anybody wants,” he once said.

His skills have earned him the nickname “The Master of the Chainsaw” among fans and fellow artists. Beyond competitions, the artist has expressed a desire to establish a chainsaw carving school to pass on his knowledge and preserve the craft for future generations.