slgwv's photos with the keyword: carving

Somewhat free translation-- Graffiti carved on an aspen in a meadow on Stewart Creek, Toiyabe Range, Nevada. When aspen bark is cut, the scar heals black, and this has made them a target of graffiti artists for well over a century. It even happens now, tho it's frowned on, of course. The carvings here were done by sheepherders, largely Spanish-speaking Basques, up thru the mid-20th century or so. This meadow would have been an obvious place for grazing!

Old carved aspen on Pine Creek trail, Toquima Range, Nevada, USA. When aspen bark is grooved, a black scar forms when it heals, and this has been popular with graffitti writers for years, probably ever since people figured out carving. Even the US Forest Service would mark trails in this way back in the day. Of course, now it's seriously frowned on!