Artistry in Wood.net by The Chainsaw Artist Dayton Scoggins

In the summer of 2005 Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Alabama. The Mississippi Gulf Coast areas were hit extremely hard. The landmark antebellum homes and historical oaks that lined the famous “ Highway 90” - Beach Boulevard were all but obliterated.

In 2006 when 2 of those Gulf Coast cities were working on plans and beatification, they opted to turn those dead historical trees into works of art.

Rather than bulldoze several of the trees both the Cities of Biloxi and Gulfport brought in Dayton Scoggins the chainsaw artist to bring this plan into fruition. There were a few opponents to the project, but as Scoggins began it was clear to all involved it was an amazing, creative memorial to the strength and character of the Gulf Coast People. Thousands have admired the art works. The Biloxi Collection located in the median of Beach Boulevard and the series located on Hwy 90 and the public park in Gulfport. Hundreds of comments have been sent to both cities and also to Mr. Scoggins himself. Praising the art work and thanking him for turning a sign of devastation into something remarkable for all to enjoy. Keeping true to gulf coast wildlife that has always played such a predominant role, Scoggins carved Mississippi’s native animals and marine life into the stumps bringing them to life. Photo’s of Scoggins work has been circulated through email on the internet prompting emails and comments along with request for more of Dayton’s art in Public Places.

Dora Harrison
Post ID: 060207113425

posted on Feb 6th 2007

Loved your wonderful piece you did on HWY 90, Gulfport, MS...what a beautiful masterpiece...My sister and I took some pics by your work, and 6 people from PA. stopped and I took a group shot for them next to it..They were truely in awh with it also. Thank You..

Julie Dobbs
Post ID: 290107111518

posted on Jan 29th 2007

I saw on of your creations on Hwy 90 yesterday! Thanks for making me smile!

sandra harrell
Post ID: 050107070923

posted on Jan 5th 2007

We saw your sculpture in Gulfport...Thank You ..it is beautiful, we lost our home about a block below, this will be a great landmark for us.

Janet Butler
Post ID: 050107055137

posted on Jan 5th 2007

How wonderful that your artwork will grace those areas in Biloxi where so many trees have died. What a great addition to the city! We look forward to driving over from Texas to see the finished products.