Hang on to your hats this morning folks, because we’re about to show you a “before and after” like you’ve never seen.

James Brinley, a custom, largely self-taught chainsaw sculptor (yes, you read that right), recently completed a magnificent carving from a tree stump at 202 W. Georgia Rd. in Simpsonville. James started his first chainsaw carving in 2010, and since then, has logged thousands of hours turning his hobby into a career. Check out more of his incredible sculptures here and watch him in action here.

This month, in a matter of weeks, James took this tree stump from this —

“Before” | Photo provided by James Brinley

To this —

“During” | Photo provided by James Brinley

And finally, to this.

James’ carving depicts Simpsonville’s iconic Clock Tower, the original tree the sculpture was created from, and the home where the piece is located. By the way, this home is rumored to be the third to ever be constructed in Simpsonville. The homeowner wanted to preserve a piece of history, and James had the idea to add the modern Clock Tower to bring it all together as a tribute to the City Simpsonville.

DYK — The Clock Tower, built in 1986, was commissioned by a group of business leaders and property owners to improve Simpsonville’s downtown and stimulate business. Because of a rigid steel inner structure, the tower can withstand 200 mile per hour winds.

*Pining* for your own wooden sculpture for a business, cabin, garden, or local park? Contact James here about his custom sculptures and stump carvings.