Stephan Zenz is a bowyer and teacher of nature and wilderness skills in Austria. Having spent more than a decade working behind a camera in the media industry, he now follows his passion of leading men's work and helping children flourish in the wild.

Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Stephan Zenz.         

Episode Links:

https://www.instagram.com/nativwerk_stephanzenz/

https://www.nativwerk.at/

Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Summary:

Explore the inspiring story of a multi-talented bowyer, photographer, and wilderness teacher transitioning across professions to embrace a life rooted in nature, craftsmanship, and community. This episode offers insights into traditional bow making, outdoor education, and personal growth through creative pursuits.

Show Notes:

• Stephan shares how his career shift was driven by a desire for authenticity and connection with nature

• Discussion of different woods used in bow making, especially osage, yew, black locust, and rattan

• Insights into the tools and methods for crafting bows, including tillering and eyeing the grain

• The importance of patience and focus in the craft and personal transformation through working with natural materials

• Details about bow making workshops, gatherings, and retreats in Austria, fostering community among bowyers

• Stephan describes his journey into wilderness survival, teaching kids survival skills, and leading group adventures

• The influence of outdoor experiences, caves, and mountaineering on his artistic and personal life

• Tips for photographing bows and wildlife, emphasizing natural light and perspective

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Stefan’s diverse career: bowyer, photographer, wilderness teacher

• 02:01 - Stephan’s background in media and transition to outdoor education

• 04:08 - The process of building bows: materials, tools, and challenges

• 09:03 - How Stefan started bow carving with a fascination for archery

• 15:12 - Harvesting bow staves and sourcing materials in Austria and abroad

• 17:10 - The origin of Stephan’s business, Nativwerk, and focus on community

• 20:20 - Kids' wilderness programs and outdoor survival skills

• 22:23 - Personal insights into working in a grandmother's barn workshop

• 24:01 - Photographing bows and wildlife: techniques and equipment

• 27:27 - Organizing and leading bowmaking gatherings and retreats

• 28:45 - Exploring traditional weapons like atlatl and spear throwers

• 33:34 - Building and finishing a Hooper-style bow: design, painting, and sinew backing

• 47:34 - Favorite bow woods and tools

• 52:18 - Working with materials like rattan, horn overlays, and natural dyes

• 64:40 - Stephan’s experience with over 40 bows made and ongoing challenges

• 70:28 - Lessons learned: patience, focus, and connection to materials

• 71:56 - How their shared passions continue to foster community and personal growth