“Thresholds” is a new series of multimedia sculptures where turned or carved wood human figures stand at the threshold of new beginnings. A doorway frames their dreams, represented by an agate. As we stand at the threshold of a decision, the glass bevel gives us pause to consider….
Some time ago, I started a series of figures to explore off center turning. The characters each had their own backstories but lacked a platform to express their status in life. As I was going through some glass supplies I rediscovered some beautiful agates and the notion of doorways and dreaming took root.
I finally fulfilled a long standing desire to design and make a Greene and Greene inspired coffee table using only traditional joinery. I’ve always admired the ebony splines and “ cloud lift” features of Greene and Greene furniture. The reverse tapered legs really show off the quarter sawn white oak and the oil finish gives the whole piece a stunningly warm luster.
The project took several months to complete as I figured out how to accomplish the joinery and not ruin over $600 worth of quarter sawn white oak. There were lots of sketchbook sketches and head scratching!
This 5.5″ tall, 6.5′ diameter cherry wood lidded vessel features an ebony handle whose curve mirrors that of the wood grain. The visibility of the grain is heightened by the use of transparent red aniline dye.
Multiple coats of tung oil were applied to create rich luster that is smooth and creamy to the touch. Renaissance crystalline wax was used for the final polish.
“Hunger Moon, 18′ diameter, 8″ height” is the ninth sculpture in my Moon series, celebrating the names given to the full moons by indigenous peoples of North America.
Hunger Moon is associated with February’s full Moon. At that time of the year, hunting and gathering would have been severely limited due to the cold and snow.
My interpretation shows an outstretched hand cradling the northern polar area of the earth as it pierces a basket illusion representing the top of a saguaro cactus.
This piece will have its inaugural reveal Friday March 11 at the Tubac Open Studio Tour. I will be located with 5 other artists at 2364 Camino Esplendido, Tubac, AZ.
Life on my Own 