Approx. 1" x 2.5" Deer antler and copper
About the Artist
As a bone carver and taxidermist, sustainability, recycling, and deconstructing mediums into a foreign art form is my specialty. I enjoy sourcing my materials, from Mother Nature, herself. I search for animal bone on private lands in Chattanooga, and process the findings into a hygienic, safe medium. When carving bone, a Freeform sculpting method is used. The bone must guide the tool, along with my knowledge of osteology. Although my Bachelors of Science is focus on Animal Science, I personally studied osteology from donated medical books. Next, I searched through the woods to look for materials like snake sheds, old wires, broken glass and discarded metals from old dumping sites. I utilize a metal detector to remove waste that is unseen to the eye. Once buried, broken and abandoned, I bring all mediums back to life. Copper that hides behind binds of plastic wrap, and considered dirty, must be cleaned or the soot with remain on the metal. I then use my lapidary torch and paint with heat, turning copper into a variety of colors. Fuchsia is a favorite, at the moment. No two pieces are alike, as no bone is the same, and the wind may carry the torch in a different direction. Completing lapidary school was made possible by winning a grant for professional development, specifically representing artists with disabilities.