THE PROCESS

Wood Carving vs. Wood Sculpture

Many people confuse "wood carving" with "wood sculpture".   Carving involves using chisels and knives.  I use neither.  The process for each and every hand-sculpted piece begins by carefully selecting the lumber; paying special attention to the woodgrain, color, and thickness of each board.  Wood is chosen that best accentuates the particular piece to be sculpted.  The pattern is made, then transferred to the lumber, and band sawed to a rough likeness of the piece.  Six sanding steps bring the piece from crude to a smooth, satiny finish.  Coats of lacquer are applied bringing out the luster and color of the woodgrain.  Individually enhanced cast metal legs and feet are added to the bird sculptures.  The final step is mounting the piece on a polished Manzanita root base which I have signed and dated.