Levi Fisher Ames

• Ames, born in 1840, died 1923 was a civil war veteran and prolific wood carver. His artwork is considered to be a part of the folk art moment. As a child he was inspired by the circus that toured and stayed over winter in his home state of Wisconsin. When the Civil war erupted Ames enlisted and served twice once discharged due to injury. Upon the end of the War Levi returned to Wisconsin, bought a house and property. He likely did so with the purpose to start a farm, Although he was never able to fully cultivate his land, due to his injuries sustained in war. Faced with the need for money Ames began repairing instruments. It was during this time he picked up wood carving. Ames would carve mostly animals but imaginary creature were never not an option, he would encase these ornate creatures in wooden boxes and display them as if they were in there own natural, sometimes surrealistic environment. 
• Upon seeing the work of Levi Fisher Ames I noticed a sort of scientific display of animals, at fist look nothing entirely captivating. That would be until you took a closer look into the world (box) that encapsulated them. The animals carved in a way that suggested movement, scenes full of imagination and technical competency. I especially enjoyed the imaginary animals he would show. The boxes were complete with the creatures own banner as if to announce the eight wonder of the world, there for you to see (just pay 25 cents no photos allowed). Needless to say I spent plenty of time analyzing every exotic little wooden world of his.

Sources: www.wisconsinacademy.org/magazine/levi-fisher-ames