Now You See It, Now You Don’t: These Telescoping Castles Will Surprise You

By Geneva Chin (Portland, Oregon)

March 31, 2025 3:36 p.m.

Uli Kirchler carves enchanting tiny castles that pop up out of burl wood and retract with a simple touch. He says he collaborates with nature, coaxing magic from wood. Before becoming a wood sculptor, he worked as a one-man band in Europe for ten years, carrying his belongings in the drum on his back. Busking taught him that life has no limits.