Carving Out a New Rhythm
The Musician Who Found Harmony in Chainsaw Art
By Sonya Newman
The Ashland Beacon
You can’t drive through Ashland without seeing the massive effect the arts have contributed to our community. Many artists have risen to the challenge of rebranding buildings, plazas, boat ramps, and parks with a spirit of creativity that is revitalizing the city, and it is visibly clear to folks who’ve lived here a lifetime and those visiting for the first time. Creativity is contagious and so many artists have emerged in this time of renewal, even exploring new avenues of artistry.
The musical reach and scope of singer/songwriter Rob McNurlin is vast. He’s traveled more miles than he can recall for over 30 years, playing to audiences big and small, in small venues, fairs, festivals, concerts, television programs, radio programs, and churches all over the country, and even in other countries. He’s not easily defined, but the great ones seldom are. He has signature look and sound that is both intriguing and unique. In addition to his guitar as his primary tool for work, he’s picked up chain saws and paintbrushes and opening brand-new doors as only he can.
“I have always doodled and painted some and I did some chain saw art as a teenager. But over the last few years starting during the pandemic and since I don't tour as much as I did, I've started concentrating more on my art.” His pandemic hobby, began in carving life-size wooden Indians, but being as talented as he is he can carve anything. “I’ve recently made a bear, a Gram Parsons tribute in a rhinestone suit, and I'm just starting a bigfoot; I have a few other ideas, too.” McNurlin shared.
“My favorite project I’ve made is a wooden Indian that I still have but everyone else really liked the Gram Parsons tribute.” McNurlin proudly shared. That sentiment is backed up by others, as well. “Rob is the Picasso of chain saw art. He’s also a good singer, picker, hillbilly fashion hound, and all-around great guy.” Country music legend and fellow hillbilly fashion hound, Marty Stuart posted on his Facebook Reels.
McNurlin recalled, “Everybody has been really open to my art. However, one person on Facebook took offense about the Indians and said I was racists, but it silenced her when I told her my Native American friends liked them.” McNurlin’s response alone details the kind of person he is, kind to everyone, respectful above all, and true to himself. “When I carve anything, it is out of complete respect.” McNurlin declared.
While some of his work is available for purchase at Wicked Ollies in Nashville Tennessee, the bulk of his work is at his home, and he’d welcomes those who want to see it to just come and see him.
This new avenue as an artist hasn’t stopped McNurlin’s music career that’s spanned parts of four decades. “There are a lot of standout moments over the years: touring with heroes like Ramblin' Jack Elliott, performing with Hot Tuna and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, recording at the Cash Cabin Studio, but the biggest thrill was performing at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville with Marty Stuart,” McNurlin recalls.
Those who’ve inspired him are led by Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan, but also include Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Woodie Guthrie, and his son Arlo. He also counts all the church hymns from his youth as a factor. He has made nine albums, and today continues to make music. He posts new content to his YouTube Channel (@buffaloskinnerllc), and of course McNurlin still plays live shows. Check out McNurlin’s Facebook page for exciting news about his upcoming concerts and artistic projects.
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