The classification of my sculptures is simply a way to better understand your work of art and how it fits in to the overall body of work I have created through the years.
Stone Sketch
These are smaller sculptures done in both hard and soft stone. They typically measure about 5 to 8 inchs in length and weigh around 2lb. These are done more quickly with a focus on utilizing imagination, memory and even ‘mistakes’ as guides to creating the final form. With stone sketches I tend to be more flexible and interpretive when following my references. Ultimately there is a less refined detail and more of a focus on overall look and feel of the form. I find I can explore more creative and expressive exaggerations in the forms and uncover what works and what doesn’t. Stone sketches are very explorative and sometimes end up becoming the starting point for larger works. These are an important part of my creative process and my body of work. They allow me to let go, not take things so seriously, and just have fun, and as a result I end up with very playful and dynamic forms.
Minor Works
These are done in both soft and hard stones and typically range from 12” to 18” length and weigh between 10lb to 40lb. Although I have created a number of minor works with an emphasis on simplicity, I do have a collection of minor works created over the years which are actually some of the most intricately detailed and refined pieces I have ever done. This is because I am not working with a large volume of stone and as a result I can invest more time into refining and specifying the accuracy of the form. Another unique feature of this classification of work is stone variety. This is where I can try out new stones and many of the works I have done in this category are “one off” stones which I have only carved one or two of in a particular stone adding to the rarity and uniqueness of the finished carving.
Major Works
Major works are sculptures ranging in the 18 to 30inch length typically weighing between 60 to 200lb These are created almost exclusively in harder stone to support the integrity and long-term durability of the piece. I create around 2 to 4 of these per year, and as such make up a smaller fraction of my body of work but stand as ‘feature’ works of art in a collection. They are always done in full detail with an emphasis in particular on the face. The size of these works offer an opportunity to really see the unique coloration and qualities of each stone.
Monumental Works
These pieces are the most rare and exclusive of all the work I create. I will do 1 or 2 at most and sometimes none a year. They range from 30” to 75” and weigh anywhere from 500lb to 1500lb. They are done exclusively in harder stone to ensure the long-term durability and longevity of the piece and are always done to full detail. In a way they are the pinnacle of my expression in the sense that they become works of art that challenge me both physically and mentally where I push myself to the edge of and beyond my creative thresholds into new realms of self expression.