Contents

Carved with Care: A Lifetime of Art by Roger Nadrchal

Last Updated 6/24/2026

Meet the Artist

Roger Nadrchal has called Norfolk, Nebraska home for many years, and it is there that his passion for art has continued to flourish. A painter, woodworker, and accomplished woodcarver, Roger first discovered the art of woodcarving in 1982. After spending five years developing his skills, life eventually led him in other directions. However, in 2011, he returned to carving with renewed enthusiasm and commitment, embracing the craft once again.

From Waterfowl to Whimsy

In his early carving years, Roger focused primarily on songbirds, ducks, and waterfowl. Over time, his artistic interests expanded, and today his work includes an impressive variety of subjects ranging from wildlife and nature-inspired carvings to whimsical bark houses, caricatures, and his well-known Santa figures.

While Roger maintains a busy professional and personal life as CEO of NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska, as well as enjoying time with family, friends, and fellow carvers, art has remained a constant source of inspiration and fulfillment.

A Commitment to Learning and Teaching

Since returning to carving, Roger has continued to refine his skills through workshops and educational opportunities throughout Nebraska. He has studied under many respected instructors, including Morris Anderson, Kirt and Linda Curtis, Marty Dolphens, PJ Driscoll, Debbe Edwards, Rick Jensen, and Desiree Hajny. His commitment to learning and sharing knowledge has made him a valued member of the woodcarving community.

Roger has served as President of the Northeast Nebraska Woodcarvers Association and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Mid-America Woodcarvers Association. In addition to his leadership roles, he has taught woodcarving classes at the Gretna Woodcarving Experience, the Doane Experience, Coleridge Carvers, and numerous local carving clubs. His classes are known for their welcoming atmosphere and clear, step-by-step instruction in carving, texturing, and painting techniques, making them accessible to both beginners and experienced carvers alike.

A Collection Decades in the Making

For this exhibition at the Columbus Art Gallery, Roger is sharing a collection that represents decades of artistic exploration and craftsmanship. Visitors will discover an extraordinary range of carvings, including waterfowl, wildlife, caricatures, seasonal holiday pieces, and many other unique creations that showcase the versatility of his talent.

Each piece reflects Roger's attention to detail, appreciation for nature, sense of humor, and passion for storytelling through wood.

Experience the Exhibit

This exhibit offers a glimpse into a lifetime dedicated to creativity, patience, and the joy of working with wood. Whether you are drawn to the realism of wildlife carvings, the charm of whimsical characters, or the craftsmanship behind every detail, there is something in this collection for everyone to enjoy.

We invite you to experience the remarkable artistry of Roger Nadrchal and discover the stories, characters, and natural beauty captured within each carving.

Gallery Hours: