Woodcraft Meets Art – Our Apprentices Contribute to the “Stillstand” Exhibition

At SIK-Holz^®, we are proud of our second-year woodcarving apprentices, who have contributed to the permanent exhibition “Stillstand” in Zella with great creativity, dedication, and personal expression. The project demonstrates how vocational training can go far beyond the teaching of technical skills.

Over a period of approximately eighteen months, our apprentices worked intensively on the theme of “Stillstand” (“Standstill”), alongside three other students from the Empfertshausen Woodcarving School. They were guided throughout the project by Stefan Kranz, a teacher at the Empfertshausen Woodcarving School, and Julia Abheiden, Master Craftswoman and trainer at SIK-Holz^®.

The result of this intensive creative process is a collection of unique artworks that are now permanently displayed in the historic vaulted cellar of the Biosphere Information Center at Propstei Zella. Each participant interpreted the theme in a highly personal way, transforming thoughts, experiences, and perspectives into wood. The resulting works invite reflection and demonstrate the remarkable creative potential of young people.

Training Means More Than Technical Expertise

As a company, we see our responsibility as extending beyond professional training. We aim to support young people in developing their personalities, discovering new perspectives, and finding their own paths. Projects such as the “Stillstand” exhibition provide valuable opportunities to do exactly that.

Engaging deeply with a social and personal theme requires creativity, reflection, and perseverance—qualities that are essential both professionally and personally. At the same time, apprentices learn how to express their ideas through their work, take ownership of a project, and present their creations to the public.

Looking Beyond the Workshop

At SIK-Holz^® we consciously support initiatives that go beyond the traditional apprenticeship experience. We want to give our apprentices opportunities to gain meaningful experiences that can shape their future and provide valuable guidance for their personal and professional development.

Projects like this foster not only craftsmanship but also self-confidence, self-reflection, and the ability to engage with broader social issues. They help young people recognize their strengths and develop their own unique paths.

A Strong Statement for the Woodcraft Profession

The exhibition also highlights the versatility and vitality of wood as a material. Traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary ideas and individual forms of expression. For our apprentices, participation in the exhibition was a special opportunity to apply their skills in a new context and showcase their personal artistic signature.

We would like to thank everyone involved—especially Stefan Kranz and our trainer Julia Abheiden—for their dedicated support throughout the project. Above all, we congratulate our apprentices on their impressive achievements.

We are proud to accompany young people on their journey—professionally, personally, and with a view toward the many opportunities that lie ahead.