Weekly Updates- February 10, 2024
It has been a few weeks since my last update. During this time, there have been both positive and challenging developments.
Highlights
Progress on Sculptures: I have been working hard on a life size sculpture designed for a fire station, starting my days at the clay studio at 4 am. When it is completed in clay I will post photos. Additionally, I successfully created three portrait bas-reliefs (in clay) that are now approved for casting in bronze. Once cast in bronze, these reliefs and their text plaque are to be installed at a 100 year old printing and packaging company in New York and the Ronald Reagan Ranch in California. These portrait relief plaques have been possible through partnerships established in Chicago and Santa Barbara. They are a wonderful way to keep up my sculpting ‘chops’ and skills as a portrait relief sculptor and keeping the juices flowing, so to speak.
While my assistant, Michael, has been busy with mold making and wax work, I have begun working on the metal assembly for a project honoring a client’s friend who passed away in 2023. This life-size sculpture depicts a man seated on a bench and raising a toast. With the assistance of my metal assembler, Adam, we are making progress on this project to ensure it is installed in time for the 1 year anniversary of his passing.
New Studio: I am so excited (and yet nervous) at a new acquisition of an old farmhouse and studio space. This move will be a positive change for both my partner, Jessica, and myself, as it consolidates our workspaces and reduces overhead costs. While my metal and wax studio will remain separate for now, having my clay studio adjacent to our home will provide more opportunities for sculpting.
SCULPT tournament: Not many people are aware that my assistant and I started up a Facebook group for fellow sculptors. ‘Sculpting Challenge; Ultra Low Pressure Tourney’ aka S.C.U.L.P.T. takes place monthly, where sculptors create a desired piece on the first weekend of each month. We started the group in early summer of 2023 as a recreational activity for Michael and me. However, we soon realized that more sculptors equal more enjoyment so we moved it to a private Facebook group.
The most recent S.C.U.L.P.T. event occurred over the past weekend. I created a 12 inch tall clay study that Jessica titled “Searching for Truth.” Despite its gradual growth in attendance, it remains very enjoyable and gives us sculptors a way to connect to each other, no matter where we are located geographically. Eventually, I plan to create a website gallery to showcase the numerous sculptures that I have created since its inception.
Summary of the highlights; taking a hands-on Approach
- Engaging in every aspect of the bronze casting process, from molds to patina, has allowed me to enhance my skills and creativity. This hands-on experience is integral to my development as a bronze sculptor and ensures a comprehensive understanding of the art form. While the industrial aspects of bronze casting are opposite the creative aspects of sculpting in clay, they each require creativity and industrial thinking. In my mind, they are a true yin and yang partnership.
Challenges
The past couple of weeks have posed challenges, including the stress of closing on a new property and consolidating multiple spaces into one. Additionally, a misunderstanding with a client led to the need for a revised agreement, highlighting the importance of clear communication and documentation in business partnerships.
Key Takeaways
- Despite being a solo endeavor, sculpture relies on the support of various individuals and businesses. Establishing clear agreements and maintaining professional relationships are crucial aspects of navigating the complexities of partnerships in the art world, as in any endeavor.
- It is crucial to acknowledge the importance of connection. In times of stress, it is common to distance ourselves and put up defenses. However, it is so important to seek positivity and recognize that everyone faces their own challenges in life. Practice forgiveness generously and love unconditionally!
Thank you for reading my blog post. I hope to be back here soon with yet another post. Happy SCULPTing.
