Five international artists (Bahrain, China, Norway and Zimbabwe) and two local woodcarvers were invited to the program. Many thanks to the Lao Furniture Industry Group Company in assisting the carvers on the first day. Carving slabs were selected at the factory and the carvers discussed and merged their ideas for the event theme “Life.” The results from the first day laid a very good foundation. The group continued carving at the ITECC main venue for the three event days. The audience was able to witness how the unique relief woodcarving was created from two pieces of raw wood slabs and appreciate the carvers’ craftsmanship.
Besides, 23 talented woodcarvers from Laos were selected to participate in the woodcarving competition. They worked on their woodcarving works for three intense days that reflected the event theme of "Life" in Lao and the Lao people. A professional panel of judges reviewed all the carvings and winners were awarded at the closing ceremony. Local carvers also brought some of their high quality works to exhibit at the venue that showed their skills and creativity.
World Wood Day is a cultural event celebrated annually during the week of March 21st to highlight wood as an eco-friendly and renewable biomaterial and to raise awareness on the key role wood plays in a sustainable world. Starting from 2013, WWD celebrations were held in Tanzania, China, Turkey, Nepal, and United States respectively, involving participants from over 100 countries and regions.