Stonemasons still exist

After years as a graphic journalist and web developer I went to trade school to become a stonemason. Not to polish counter tops, but to build cathedrals.

I mainly do restoration work — we don't build majestic temples anymore. The columns and arches once erected for public buildings are now heritage sites. Why? Our motivations changed: since World War II, our cities have been built for cars and commerce (the Architectural Uprising is trying to change that, and encourage building for people).

Old traditions and some new technology

I measure and design projects using both traditional techniques and modern 3D scanning. I participate in the Canadian Stone Carving Festival, using manual tools, but also like making CAD drawings for CNC machines.

I am Justin Stahlman, a draftsman & stonemason in Montreal. Here I am at the Forges de Montréal during a collaboration between stonemasons and blacksmiths.