Object ID Number: 2016FFTRa2

Object Number: 2016FFTRa2

Notes: Over the past number of years these mobiles have grown in size and complexity to where they have become ever-moving and interacting shapes that have burst out to fill a much larger space. Stars, planets, and other astronomical objects floating in space, or flocks of Sandhill Cranes spiraling up to glide off are two of my favorite themes, along with my Underwater series where various aquatic plants and animals swim in ever-changing patterns. My sculptures are made from various hardwoods that have been turned, cut and carved, inlaid or laminated to achieve the desired effect. Different colors and textures are achieved by using different types of wood, most often native hardwoods. Finally a coating of Tung oil varnish is applied to protect the wood. That my medium of expression turned out to be wood, seems to have been almost pre-ordained. My relationship with trees has been a life-long passion, along with my preference for all things natural. Through my work I have found a way to express and examine the things that fascinate me most. Many of my works are small dioramas where the mind can go exploring. The element of Discovery is also important in my work, and I would be disappointed in any of my pieces that didn’t have some sort of surprise or twist. After 35 years as a professional artist I can still say that I’m never completely sure what I’m going to make next, and that I still manage to surprise myself from time to time.