Canadian Ice Carver's Society - CICS

02/18/2026

Congrats to CICS member Mowafak Alrasam and his carving partner Andrew Zoller on amazing work and winning the public vote!

02/17/2026

02/15/2026

CICS members had a great time ice carving at Shenkman Arts Centre / Centre des arts Shenkman

02/08/2026

Yesterday’s Ryan Hill Public Challenge was an incredible event. Winterlude felt different this year without him, but the tribute from the Winterlude team was truly moving. Ryan’s impact was felt by everyone there, and his memory was honoured in a beautiful way.

The Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge is one of this year’s featured events at Winterlude in the capital region. Hill's friends and family hope the challenge inspires others to remember his work and learn the craft themselves.

02/08/2026

Welcome to the Ottawa Bike Cafe!

Step off Sparks Street and into a warm, welcoming hideaway where locally sourced bites and hot drinks make the winter chill disappear. With cozy corners to gather, friendly faces to meet, and an atmosphere that feels like home, it’s a place where everyone can find their spot.

During Winter Wander: Winterlude Edition, cozy up with a drink, enjoy the live DJ performances just outside, and let Ottawa Bike Café be your winter escape - a spot to connect, relax, and celebrate the season.

02/08/2026

Welcome to Rabbit Hole! 🐇🍸️

Step inside a 130-year-old space where history meets imagination. With exposed stone walls, two levels of artful cocktails, and an atmosphere that feels straight out of a storybook, this downtown gem invites you to linger a little longer. Spot the ice sculpture out front during Winter Wander, then fall all the way down the Rabbit Hole for an unforgettable night.

02/08/2026

Another fun project from the CICS team.

Welcome to Capital Art Fair! ❄️🎨

This hidden-gem gallery and gift shop on Sparks Street is brimming with local creativity, beginning just outside their shop with an interactive ice sculpture that’s perfect for a playful winter photo (yep, you can pop your head right in!).

Step inside and you'll discover the Winterlude Art Show (Jan 30 - Feb 16), featuring more than 30 Ottawa-based artists and artisans presenting winter- and Ottawa-inspired works. Browse handcrafted gifts, take part in hands-on workshops, and explore immersive, winter-themed installations designed for all ages.

From unique artwork to interactive experiences, Capital Art Fair is a must-visit stop for inspiration, creativity, and a little winter magic during Winter Wander: Winterlude Edition on Sparks Street.

02/07/2026

https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.7078517

Ryan Hill, who died last year at age 50, is being honoured at Winterlude in Ottawa with the return of the Ice-Carving Public Challenge, which now carries his name.

01/25/2026

Carved at the CICS studio, we're also curious, when will it melt?

How long do you think it’ll take for this carving of our logo to melt? Enter your guess on our website for a chance to win a Winterlude prize pack including hotel stay downtown, $150 resturant gift card, and Beavertails! The ones who are closest without going over will be entered into the draw for the prize pack. Good luck!

01/25/2026

Ice carving does not grow if people never get to touch it. CICS member Suguru Kanbayashi is leading by example through public workshops that open the studio doors and invite the community to learn, create, and connect with the art of ice sculpture. Link to the registration in the comments.

Rosey learns from Ice Sculptor Suguru Kanbayashi on how to sculpt ice.Subscribe to CTV News to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/ctvnewsConnect with...

01/25/2026

Winterlude is honouring the legacy of CICS member Ryan Hill, an amazing carver and friend who is deeply missed. The public carving challenge is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to try carving at Winterlude and discover a love for ice carving.

Ryan Hill, an inspiring Mohawk artist and iconic figure of Winterlude, discovered ice sculpting by participating in the Public Challenge in 2013. This memorable experience had a profound impact on his journey and left a lasting mark on our event.

In his honour, we are proud to present the Ryan Hill Ice Sculpture Public Challenge, presented by Tim Hortons! ❄️

📅 February 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The public is invited to create, express themselves, and celebrate our Canadian winter identity.

🧊 Ready to take on the challenge?

📍 Register now: https://ow.ly/66iw50Y1Mfm

01/18/2026

CICS members making some great artwork!