Process:

The process begins by studying the stones’ shape, volume, and texture. Sometimes this a long process of studying the stone from every view, turning it upside down, walking away from it, and then returning to view the stone over a period of time until inspired to begin the carving process. Stone sculpting is a subtractive process, of taking away parts of the stone to inform what the sculptor feels the stone wants to reveal. Carving starts with a chisel and mallet, working around the stone to create the rough form. As the form develops I like to sketch on the stone to help guide the caving direction. When satisfied with the rough form, rasps and grinding tools are used to refine the form. The final finishing is a long process several degrees of sanding, polishing and buffing when a smooth finish is desired.