YUKON SEASONS: LEFT

YUKON SEASONS: LEFT - PHASE 11

May 28, 2002

The Sandhill Crane has morphed again into a more realistic bird. Co-incidently, while I was working on this part of the sculpture the Sandhill Cranes migrated through, passing over my studio in flocks of hundreds and thousands. I was able to observe their feather structure and flight pattern with an eye to duplicating the same in antler. It was indeed fortuitous that they passed by when they did, because the pictures I was using for reference were simply not adequate! :) There is a little more work yet to do on the receding wing, which will be attended to later, when I change the position of the work on the carving bench.

I have found that my back has been giving me a little trouble lately, due to inadequate support from my old chair and the need to work in a reaching or stretched position. I broke down and purchased a new office chair, with a very comfortable seat, firm back support, adjustable arm rests and the ability to raise and lower the chair on a gas cylinder. The new chair has made a real difference, providing great support while allowing my hands and arms to work, on each section of the antler at a consistent height and with consistent support.

I had hoped to finish the carving by this date, in order to include it in the 10th Anniversary Show at the Yukon Arts Centre. Unfortunately, it is not to be. I feel strongly that it is better to do a job right, rather than compromise the carving by rushing to meet a particular date. The folks who purchase the work and have it to look at for the rest of their lives deserve the best ... let alone the folks a few hundred years down the line for whom rushing now would also be a disappointment!

Till next time,

Shane

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