Process: Marionettes With Geahk Burchill

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(Music by Eric Beug, Animation by Julia Pott)

While stringed puppetry dates back as far as 2000 BC, the term marionette was coined roughly around 1600 AD and means “Little Mary.” Gaining popularity during Roman times, the Christian church eventually adopted puppet shows as a way to covey morality plays. Eventually, puppet shows were banned from the church as performers started using comedy to influence the stories and subvert both church and state. Over time, the great traditions of trickery and magic have subsided to the more commonly known Punch and Judy style, usually geared toward entertaining children.

The Cast Iron Carousel Marionette Troupe explores the old tradition of telling darker and more beautiful stories, often unsuitable for children. A recent retelling of Steinbeck’s classic Of Mice and Men is a good example of the more subtle and complex appropriation of their work. Although the Cast Iron’s Carousel’s founder, Geahk Burchill, considers himself more of a maker than a puppeteer, he is very passionate about storytelling, shown in the attention to detail he gives to each puppet and set he designs. He’s also passionate about keeping the tradition of puppet design alive by avidly teaching affordable puppet design classes  at his studio in the St. John’s neighborhood of North Portland.

In this episode of the Process video series, Geahk demonstrates his incredible skill with the first incarnation of the character Asenath, an Appalachian witch who’s set to play a role in their upcoming play The Doom That Came to Fiddle Creak. 

Summoned from his cloistered Massachusetts university to rural Appalachia by a cousin he has not seen in years, Ezekiel Whitlock finds himself embroiled in a the strange and dangerous doings of a mystical family torn apart by an ancient and terrible secret. Blood Keys, a Haunted Book, an Ethereal Sword and a beautiful mute girl all seek to entangle him in an eons old struggle between the Thursbanes and what lays in wait on the ‘Other Side’… The Doom that came to Fiddle Creak!

To give a glimpse of the breadth of work and projects of the Cast Iron Carousel, here’s a short musical story they did with Portland area band Ocelli.

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  • TwinkleStarCrafts

    TwinkleStarCrafts says:

    That was amazing!

    1 year ago

  • MegansMenagerie

    MegansMenagerie says:

    Wow...so cool!!!

    1 year ago

  • auntjanecan

    auntjanecan says:

    Very cool and interesting.

    1 year ago

  • AvianInspirations

    AvianInspirations says:

    Honestly, marionettes have always creeped me out a little. That said, this lovely video has allowed me to see the craftsmanship behind the dolls. Not so creepy anymore!

    1 year ago

  • NotYourGrandmasAttic

    NotYourGrandmasAttic says:

    Very cool! So creative and interesting.

    1 year ago

  • Waterrose

    Waterrose says:

    oh these are just cool! thanks for sharing

    1 year ago

  • skinslover

    skinslover says:

    beautifully twisted

    1 year ago

  • accentonvintage

    accentonvintage says:

    Very interesting process and working with marionettes seems like so much fun!

    1 year ago

  • blueskyclouds

    blueskyclouds says:

    UTTERLY AMAZING...such artistry...I am in awe!

    1 year ago

  • corderart

    corderart says:

    What an artistan! I hope you can visit the Atlanta Center for Puppetry Arts. They have some very old puppes on display there. Some were used to entertain the troops during WWII. One is of Joe E. Brown that was used in USO shows. Thanks for sharing your exquisite talent

    1 year ago

  • Mattie714

    Mattie714 says:

    This was absolutely amazing and breath taking. This is probably my favorite "spotlight" segment that has been done. Thank you so much for sharing...

    1 year ago

  • corderart

    corderart says:

    that's "puppets not "puppes". I wasn't referring to little dogs!

    1 year ago

  • ThePolkadotMagpie

    ThePolkadotMagpie says:

    In my next life I'm going to make puppets! What a beautiful glimpse into this process. If any other people love marionettes: watch the movie "Illuminata." This piece makes the top 10 blogs to date. I have put Geah's work in many a treasury. I'm going to make one now!

    1 year ago

  • BeatificBijoux

    BeatificBijoux says:

    Oh, absolutely so cool! Thanks for sharing this!!

    1 year ago

  • AmberGypsySky

    AmberGypsySky says:

    This makes me miss shop class! Fantastic work! What skill this must take

    1 year ago

  • Parachute425

    Parachute425 says:

    Breathtaking! True art. Thank you for this introduction.

    1 year ago

  • SeptemberHouse

    SeptemberHouse says:

    So inspiring - thank you for shedding more light on this artform!

    1 year ago

  • maybudha

    maybudha says:

    what amazing talent and creativity and craftsmanship!!

    1 year ago

  • catchalljewelry

    catchalljewelry says:

    Now this is awesome! I never realized how life-like marionettes could be... simply amazing

    1 year ago

  • myzoetrope

    myzoetrope says:

    This blew my mind! Such a great behind-the-scenes.

    1 year ago

  • macraMe

    macraMe says:

    Great work!!! Congratulations!!

    1 year ago

  • maggiemaevintage

    maggiemaevintage says:

    beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • dimplesdragonflies

    dimplesdragonflies says:

    Extraordinary! I couldn't take my eyes off your process! Incredible!

    1 year ago

  • lovelygifts

    lovelygifts says:

    Awesome post! So creative and talented!

    1 year ago

  • seacucumbermama

    seacucumbermama says:

    Very, very interesting video. The artist is amazing.

    1 year ago

  • Asianexpressions

    Asianexpressions says:

    Amazing!

    1 year ago

  • JudiPaintedit

    JudiPaintedit says:

    Morbid and creepy to me, but in a very cool way!

    1 year ago

  • thepapermoonstudio

    thepapermoonstudio says:

    Great..thanks for posting!

    1 year ago

  • SpinningCastle

    SpinningCastle says:

    I am so proud of Geahk!!! Geahk is my friend and we worked together for many years. It is so wonderful to see him flourishing with his marionettes here on Etsy. He is an amazing artist, truly talented and I am just so happy that more people can see his artwork and craft! I can attest that he puts his heart and soul into his puppets, they are indeed, masterpieces in miniature. Congratulations, Geahk! <3 <3 <3 ~~Susan

    1 year ago

  • ikabags

    ikabags says:

    Amazing work with big love ! Beautiful , congratulations !

    1 year ago

  • lindapaloma

    lindapaloma says:

    Magical, amazing, mesmerizing. I'm reduced to speechless, starry-eyed wonder.

    1 year ago

  • GeahkBurchill

    GeahkBurchill says:

    Ironically, my internet is acting up and I can't watch the video. Thanks Susan and everyone else for your incredibly kind words. I am honored and a-glow! I just wish I could see what everyone else could!

    1 year ago

  • GeahkBurchill

    GeahkBurchill says:

    Ironically, my internet is acting up and I can't watch the video. Thanks Susan and everyone else for your incredibly kind words. I am honored and a-glow! I just wish I could see what everyone else could!

    1 year ago

  • lovinganvil

    lovinganvil says:

    so wonderful...

    1 year ago

  • blueroompottery

    blueroompottery says:

    Wow, so talented!!! I grew up watching shadow theater in Greece, and I can see what a pro you are!! All the best!!

    1 year ago

  • CoolStuffByDesign

    CoolStuffByDesign says:

    Very cool puppets!

    1 year ago

  • DarwinsDress

    DarwinsDress says:

    WOW!!! The puppets are so amazing!! I loved to see the witch come alive thru your ART! Thank you for sharing your incredible craft!

    1 year ago

  • OliveLongstocking

    OliveLongstocking says:

    Artistry at its absolute best !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    1 year ago

  • HoldTheWire

    HoldTheWire says:

    Geahk, I loved watching you work: draw, carve, sand and paint the puppets! I'm impressed that you haven't held any antique puppets and just came up with designs yourself. Wonderful, thanks so much for sharing with us! ~Jennifer Potter

    1 year ago

  • littleprintsdiaperco

    littleprintsdiaperco says:

    Stunning! I have so enjoyed watching you dream this masterpiece & bring her to life. What a treat!

    1 year ago

  • lightbeams

    lightbeams says:

    The work of two wonderful artists on display: Geahk, the supremely talented puppeteer and his amazing marionettes are the story; the equally gifted writer/videographer/musician, Eric, the storyteller. Two talents merged to create one of my favorite "Process" videos to date. Kudos to both of you!

    1 year ago

  • ChristinaThomasArt
  • myvintagecrush

    myvintagecrush says:

    Oh wow! Those are amazing!

    1 year ago

  • shannonbatescreates

    shannonbatescreates says:

    This is stunning. Thank you for sharing! :)

    1 year ago

  • erichale

    erichale says:

    Being John Malkovich! That is amazing!

    1 year ago

  • suzanneartist

    suzanneartist says:

    It's inspiring to know old-world art tradition lives on and people appreciate this remarkable artistry.

    1 year ago

  • BingoBox

    BingoBox says:

    Beautiful work - from the music, the amazing puppets and the film. Cheers !

    1 year ago

  • Squarekitty

    Squarekitty says:

    That is just amazing! Haunting, etheral and incredible. I love it how Geahk makes every puppet from scratch by his hand alone; inspiring stuff! An art form that must not die out. Great music, too.

    1 year ago

  • andbytheway

    andbytheway says:

    they are all so beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • tfamily5

    tfamily5 says:

    fabulously creepy!

    1 year ago

  • jascamille

    jascamille says:

    Puppets have always fascinated me and yours are so beautiful. I love that you are a master of each step from the sketching to the costumes.

    1 year ago

  • konieyjaine

    konieyjaine says:

    beautifully twisted

    1 year ago

  • CrayonHall

    CrayonHall says:

    wow! amazing work

    1 year ago

  • phydeaux

    phydeaux says:

    A beautifully filmed glimpse into such a fascinating creative process! I just loved this and am entranced by Geahk's amazing talent - every bit handcrafted! Excellente!!!

    1 year ago

  • LalisLittleWorldOn

    LalisLittleWorldOn says:

    It's very difficult to express all the admiration I feel toward this amazing artist...this is so incredible...all I can say is sincere thank you for sharing this with us!

    1 year ago

  • SRPLdesign

    SRPLdesign says:

    Great Work!I like it!

    1 year ago

  • DIVINEsweetness

    DIVINEsweetness says:

    goosebumps! so disturbingly beautiful...

    1 year ago

  • LittleWrenPottery

    LittleWrenPottery says:

    I always think puppetry is an amazing skill, not just in the making but also the performing. Fabulous!

    1 year ago

  • girliepains

    girliepains says:

    aww this made me go aww

    1 year ago

  • MissHildebrandt

    MissHildebrandt says:

    What a treasure you are! You have! You offer! You deserve as much positive recognition possible. I shall spread the word...

    1 year ago

  • kathyjohnson3

    kathyjohnson3 says:

    You have so much talent, thank-you for sharing that interesting video, you truly are a master!

    1 year ago

  • JiLLDough

    JiLLDough says:

    Thought the puppets and the craft itself was amazing.Your very talented keep it up so it never dies.

    1 year ago

  • opendoorstudio

    opendoorstudio says:

    incredible workmanship! I love the old world feel! great life!

    1 year ago

  • trinityrocks

    trinityrocks says:

    Wicked cool!

    1 year ago

  • PokeberryPatch

    PokeberryPatch says:

    That is something I have ALWAYS wanted to do. Just breath taking to watch your puppet to come to life--thank you so much for sharing the video!!

    1 year ago

  • pottersong

    pottersong says:

    I like all things old fashioned! Puppet's can be such fun for the young and young at heart!

    1 year ago

  • fabrye

    fabrye says:

    Wow! Lots of skills going on there!

    1 year ago

  • weirdwolfAdmin

    weirdwolf says:

    Showing the construction of these puppets was just as magical as any of the work of Jan Svankmajer, the Brothers Quay or Jiri Trnka. What gorgeous puppets and what a stunning video!

    1 year ago

  • blissfulbathandbody

    blissfulbathandbody says:

    Wow! Thanks for the video I just loved, loved, loved it....what an awesome craft!

    1 year ago

  • chickfamilyink

    chickfamilyink says:

    This is my favorite video yet.

    1 year ago

  • TheSpotlessLoop

    TheSpotlessLoop says:

    Wow! Such an amazing quality! Incredible! :D Congrats!

    1 year ago

  • Slovly

    Slovly says:

    I love it!

    1 year ago

  • NotCarvedInStone

    NotCarvedInStone says:

    Truly amazing! As an art doll artist, I truly appreciate your work, from an artistic, a historic and creative view point. Thanks so much for sharing!

    1 year ago

  • thestapeliacompany

    thestapeliacompany says:

    Wow. I love this.

    1 year ago

  • mtraubAdmin

    mtraub says:

    Definitely one of my favorites! The intricate movement in a single hand was kind of mind-blowing.

    1 year ago

  • IStandConnected

    IStandConnected says:

    I'm floored - truly. So many talents wrapped into one creation. Ocelli's music is amazing too. Thank you for this.

    1 year ago

  • LauraGourmel

    LauraGourmel says:

    so beautiful. Great work, great characters!

    1 year ago

  • StoneWall777

    StoneWall777 says:

    Wow!, God has so gifted you. The video was very interesting. I don't know the meaning you were trying to get across, but it seemed (There was a lot of pain and death due to fiction(lies) and the boy was reaching for truth. I hope I didn't get that wrong. Anyway, it really spoke to me. I wish I lived closer to you, I would love to learn that art! Thanks for sharing

    1 year ago

  • TheWitchsPlayground

    TheWitchsPlayground says:

    Beautiful work! Love your appalchian mountain witch! Reminds me of home!

    1 year ago

  • LivingVintage

    LivingVintage says:

    Interesting article. Wonderful craftsmanship!

    1 year ago

  • streetnoodles

    streetnoodles says:

    the music was as haunting as the story and the medium you choose to present it by....i was literally stunned and later wanting MORE...more...more. i will have to revisit again & again and when i think i have finally got a grasp of it i would love to place the video in my blog & share to mt readers. thank you for creating images & music that will be with me for a long, long time.

    1 year ago

  • designlab443

    designlab443 says:

    Oh, I love this, I want to make one, they are sooooo lovely... you have a great talent! I love the soft clicking sound they make when they move. I noticed your white eyelashes, so unique.

    1 year ago

  • FrancesPhotography

    FrancesPhotography says:

    I will GO to Portland to see this - another excuse to visit. I was blown away. Such INCREDIBLE talent and passion. I really cannot say enough. It was BRILLIANT. I will share it as much as possible.

    1 year ago

  • darcyfriesen

    darcyfriesen says:

    Thank you for sharing your process and beautiful work! I am in awe and reminded again of how many different forms talented artists, such as yourself, come in.

    1 year ago

  • lovisetto

    lovisetto says:

    Just wonder, have you ever heard about Philippe Genty? If not you might find interesting what they do, it is the most beautiful Marionettes theatre! The marionettes are amazing! Here is the link for Philippe Genty! http://www.google.co.uk/images?hl=en&q=Philippe+genty&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=univ&ei=1ldATaLJHtOChQeL3ODYCA&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=5&ved=0CEcQsAQwBA&biw=1003&bih=597

    1 year ago

  • dykes4000

    dykes4000 says:

    OMG - that was wonderful. How beautiful to see her come to life. Truly a gifted artist. Thanks Etsy for sharing this story.

    1 year ago

  • staceyrebecca

    staceyrebecca says:

    Absolutely beautiful work! & hells yes for adult puppetry! COME TO PHOENIX PUPPET SLAAAAAAAMMMMSSSS

    1 year ago

  • YesterdaysTrashArt

    YesterdaysTrashArt says:

    How beautiful! Wonderful that you are keeping this artistry alive.

    1 year ago

  • StoryOfASeed

    StoryOfASeed says:

    Very inspiring, thank you!

    1 year ago

  • kmariedesignz

    kmariedesignz says:

    Great work!

    1 year ago

  • kmariedesignz

    kmariedesignz says:

    Very inspiring!

    1 year ago

  • mazedasastoat

    mazedasastoat says:

    Hauntingly beautiful & a fascinating glimpse into an almost lost world of artistry.

    1 year ago

  • BoondockG

    BoondockG says:

    Awesome craftsman and wonderful video. Enjoyed this so much and keep up the good work!

    1 year ago

  • SciFiKnits

    SciFiKnits says:

    His work is beautiful and I love this video. It's such a great marriage between the music and the puppetry. Just fabulous!

    1 year ago

  • joycookie

    joycookie says:

    this is absolutly incredible; i watched most of the video gasping! so beautiful and inspiring, well done to this chap!

    1 year ago

  • bluedogrose

    bluedogrose says:

    Wonderful work, very interesting.

    1 year ago

  • bluedogrose

    bluedogrose says:

    Wonderful work, very interesting.

    1 year ago

  • eastbaycalifornia

    eastbaycalifornia says:

    This was absolutely beautiful. Im making one right now but its my first and I didnt even know what I was doing! This is brilliant and inspirational!

    1 year ago

  • froufroufrilly

    froufroufrilly says:

    This man is a true artist - such a beautiful process.

    1 year ago

  • polkadotmagpie

    polkadotmagpie says:

    I just watched it AGAIN! Marvelousness going on.

    1 year ago

  • sushipotparts

    sushipotparts says:

    Truly fascinating! Thank you. I'm sure I'll watch this over and over.

    1 year ago

  • WoodlandCottage

    WoodlandCottage says:

    Obviously a lot of love go into your little ones, Geahk. I've been fascinated by marionettes since I was a child, and yours are quite simply wonderful. Thank you for sharing your amazing talents with us! (And y'all, given the chance, DO visit the puppet museum in Atlanta--it's filled with brilliant sights and experiences!)

    1 year ago

  • WalterSilva

    WalterSilva says:

    Fascinating! Keep up the wonderful work!

    1 year ago

  • ArchetypalTheatre

    ArchetypalTheatre says:

    Amazing! I have tried to make marionettes and never come close to this kind of subtle movement!

    1 year ago

  • AlissaRose

    AlissaRose says:

    LOVE. The amount of time and skill that goes into puppetry never ceases to amaze me. I've always had a huge interest in the background/set designs... True art. Thanks for sharing!

    1 year ago

  • AlissaRose

    AlissaRose says:

    I had only watched the second video at first. Now that's I've watched the first one - WOW. Love Love Love Love Love.

    1 year ago

  • theroyal

    theroyal says:

    dark crystal forever

    1 year ago

  • mooshoopork

    mooshoopork says:

    amazing how much work goes into these dolls! i must confess marionettes have an eeri-ness to them for me... but at the same time i am drawn to the detail and how real they can seem at times. nice work

    1 year ago

  • poorjimsvintage

    poorjimsvintage says:

    wow! how moving. It really changed my perspective on on maionette dolls.

    1 year ago

  • littlesister2

    littlesister2 says:

    Process was beautifully put together and you, Geahk, have an extraordinary talent. Thanks for letting us watch one of your characters come to life.

    1 year ago

  • pinkbijou

    pinkbijou says:

    Wonderful

    1 year ago

  • NangijalaJewelry

    NangijalaJewelry says:

    I have tons of respect for your craft and the skills and creativity it takes to do what you do. I am in awe and this piece of film is magnificent. Congratulations!

    1 year ago

  • JMcCormickDesigns

    JMcCormickDesigns says:

    Absolutely amazing work! Loved seeing your design process and the story behind your craft. I'll have to head down to Portland to see a performance!

    1 year ago

  • Merveillesenpapier

    Merveillesenpapier says:

    amazing!! the movements of the marionettes are stunning so real with such precise and accurate details ,to see it come alive is wonderful a beautiful portrait !!

    1 year ago

  • CharismaArtGallery

    CharismaArtGallery says:

    Amazing artwork! Magnificent! Congratulations, and best wishes in your artistic career. You artwork will absolutely live beyond our time. I use to enjoy the marionettes shows as a child, and you have brought all those beautiful memories back to my life. Thank you for bringing this almost forgotten art back to a new generation.

    1 year ago

  • MissMossy

    MissMossy says:

    wow

    1 year ago

  • GeahkBurchill

    GeahkBurchill says:

    Thank you everyone! I really appreciate all the kind words and commentary. I know Eric Beug does as well who put so much effort and art into making me look good! :) He really has to take a major part of the credit for being such a talented film maker and documentarian. Those of you who are interested in knowing about future shows can find them at the website: www.castironcarousel.org. You can sign up to receive email notifications about shows and classes. Of course, anyone is welcome to contact me here on Etsy, as well. --- THANKS ETSY!!!

    1 year ago

  • namasteyworld

    namasteyworld says:

    This is a great post... thank you for sharing...

    1 year ago

  • Mireloom

    Mireloom says:

    Enchanting and surreal! A great creativeness!! I was captured bythe beauty of the images!

    1 year ago

  • VanessaAdmin

    Vanessa says:

    This craftsmanship is unbelievable.

    1 year ago

  • GoSho

    GoSho says:

    The way in which these marionettes move is so real and has all the subtleties of a real human being. I think you should dedicate yourself to making a short animated film and I'll look for it on the nominated list for short animated films at the Academy Awards one day.

    1 year ago

  • zerocivico

    zerocivico says:

    That's so great!

    1 year ago

  • JeanineDesigns

    JeanineDesigns says:

    Absolutely amazing! It is very exciting to see work of this caliber. I can’t wait to see one of the theatrical performances. Wishing you fantastic success to match your heart and ability.

    1 year ago

  • heboAdmin

    hebo says:

    What a beautiful craft.

    1 year ago

  • LorenaTinajero

    LorenaTinajero says:

    Your work is breathtaking. Beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • LaurelCanyonBeads

    LaurelCanyonBeads says:

    wow- absolutely awe inspiring! Hats off to an amazing artist!

    1 year ago

  • crankbunny

    crankbunny says:

    oh lord - this is made my day.

    256 days ago

  • Greenerica

    Greenerica says:

    totally. freaking. amazing.

    256 days ago

  • Pazinktum

    Pazinktum says:

    LOVE this! Amazing!

    256 days ago

  • PAPADIAKO

    PAPADIAKO says:

    beautefull musik... very hard work video... very well done .. thank you i apreciate a lot... BRAVO.....

    256 days ago

  • goodintent

    goodintent says:

    Your work is perfection. Subtle gestures make rich the character..thank you for allowing us to observe your creative process. Just great.

    256 days ago

  • loraxxmrf

    loraxxmrf says:

    Thank you for highlighting puppetry and such a talented artist. Beautiful work! I now have a burning desire to get to Portland to check out the work in person.

    256 days ago

  • LisaKaser

    LisaKaser says:

    wonderful! I live in Portland and had no idea this troupe existed. Beautiful craftsmanship. Can't get over the beautiful gestures achieved in the hands. Superb.

    256 days ago

  • HawaiianEye

    HawaiianEye says:

    Awesome work, Geahk! I loved the video and the special care you took in developing the whittled legs and dress for the old woman. I wasn't aware that Marionettes could turn their hands in and out. What a creative soul you are. Good job.

    256 days ago

  • NetWorth

    NetWorth says:

    I am transported. The painstaking craftmanship and attention to detail are beyond stunning. How encouraging to have dedicated souls like Geahk to continue and expand a wonderful old art form.

    256 days ago

  • DeathofaDame

    DeathofaDame says:

    Wow.. i VERY much enjoyed this!

    254 days ago

  • bfhughes

    bfhughes says:

    Marvelous! Fantastic puppets and movements! I really enjoyed that adult themes are handled so entertainingly! Much dedicated work involved! Barbara

    247 days ago