16" x 9" x 18"
The skull was foraged from private lands from Chattanooga and cleaned as a European Skull Mount. The nasal cavity was removed, exposing the breaths of the Quiet King. The antlers were scorched with a lapidary torch, representing the bark of the pine trees, once used to sharpen the crown. Lastly, the antlers were carved, representing the paths the Buck in the journey in the woods. The Crown of the Quiet King.
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.