How John and Amy Sarver Built a Life Around Decoys, Art, and Community (Ep 742)
Hear how a carver–painter duo learned the craft together, built a collection, and now run one of Illinois’ longest‑running decoy shows.
Host Katie Burke talks with John and Amy Sarver—carvers, collectors, and organizers of the Henry Decoy Show—about their path into waterfowl art, carving as a team, and growing a younger decoy community.
John grew up on the Illinois River surrounded by hunters and collectors, while Amy came from an artistic family with early exposure to Mississippi River decoys. They share how Pat Gregory pushed them into carving, how painting and sculpting became a shared language, and why they’re committed to keeping regional traditions alive. The pair also reflect on shows, mentors, travel hunts, and how inspiration from wild birds translates into their work.
Takeaways:
- How childhood exposure to Illinois and Mississippi River traditions shaped their collecting
- Why Pat Gregory’s push got the whole family carving—and why their first decoys “weren’t round”
- How Amy’s art background fuels both painting and wildlife study
- The history, growth, and youth engagement of the 58‑year‑old Henry Decoy Show
- Hunting trips—from Alaska to California—that influence their carving and painting
- What it’s like being featured carvers as a young team in the craft
Creators and Guests
