Inspired by...

Inspiration is flowing. Must be the cool weather we are having. I feel rather renewed. Guess I was getting tired of all that sun and fun of summer. So, what is inspiring me?

An Oil Painting

Oil by Richard Stone Reeves

A few years ago my friend Daniella gave me a huge book of racing horses painted by Richard Stone Reeves. She was always thoughtfully looking out for good horse books for me. I have to be honest in saying that I hadn't really, REALLY looked at this book until recently. When I did sit down to study the oil paintings I was enthralled with their richness. I love the way Mr. Reeves handles the dappling effect in this particular painting. Those dapples were a jump start for me to start painting a Stone Chips model in dappled grey. I am very inspired.

Holes In The Rat

"Listen" mold getting another look

After casting my rattie sculpture "Listen" I became discouraged. There were many air holes in the silicone and a part of her ear was missing. I have been inspired to revisit these issues and get "Listen" into plaster without fail. My idea of adding small amounts of silicone to the air holes in order to hide them and make a more perfect piece to cast worked. I am very inspired.

Lastly, I am inspired to wish my best friend from home Abbi (aka: Icky Penny) a very happy birthday today! Happy Birthday chica!! I miss you!

Under The Silicone

Screws will help air escape
in certain spots during the molding process

"Listen" the rattie sculpt went under the silicone today. I'm excited to open her up later. I believe my potter's plaster has gone bad. I may have to place another order for some this week. First things first though....if little rattie didn't make the molding process I won't have to worry about any thing more on her, but I'm fairly certain all will be well. Here is what it all looked like this afternoon:

Simple box made out of cardboard and hot glue

Pouring the silicone slowly

All molded. Now we wait several hours

Officially Finished

Rat sculpture in wax

It's official! The rat sculpture I've entitled "Listen" is now officially finished! I'm thrilled, yet nervous to begin the next stages. The mold box is easy. Pouring silicone over something I've worked very hard on is difficult. There is always that moment when the mind reminds you that if Part A and Part B of the silicone isn't mixed properly the stuff won't cure. I won't dwell on that fact because this is a happy occasion. One deserving of a celebratory drink. A round for all!

So, let me make it truly official. Today I introduce to you, "Listen". An original sculpture of a pet rat in wax. She measures approximately 5" from the tip of her nose to the very base of her tail. From the ground to her shoulders she measures 2 1/2" . I anticipate a very limited run of porcelain both painted and unpainted. Be sure to join my ceramic news group for more information as this piece nears the casting stage.

Another view of "Listen"


More of the original sculpture