Wax work

Working on the petals for "Magnolia Heart". This petal is layered wax which was built up in different layers with different colored waxes. A nice benefit is that as I refine the edges I get visual feedback as to the thickness. 

My absolute favorite build up wax is Kerr Blue Inlay Casting Wax. But it is too expensive to build up everything with it. So I use cheaper waxes for the lower layers and save it for the top final layer. Then I can burnish the final coat with an X-acto knife for a very smooth finish. A bit of nice reflection on the petal is already evident. There's still much to do. Every hour of work on a wax is equal to at least four hours of work after it's cast. So I try to push my wax as far along as I can.

Working on a bronze sculpture

In my happy place, grinding a cast bronze sculpture. I sit and listen to podcasts, especially Fresh Air, and let the piece slowly refine.

In art school I once showed a piece I was proud of to my art professor, Dawn Nakanishi. She looked it over, flipped it around, and pointed to something on the back. "That could be more refined." I use this good feedback in all my work. I try to push the piece to be as refined as it can be. Sometimes the piece will push back. Most frequently when a wax I am working on breaks. It's a balance to know when it's as good as I can make it; and when I'm overthinking or overworking a piece.

Kitty Kitty

"Ahava, I'm moving and I can't take my cat."

"I heard. I'm sorry but I have three cats. I'm maxed out."

"Do you want to take a look?"

"Ok. Just as long as she's not a Persian."

"She's not a Persian..." [shows me the cat.]

..."she's a Himalayan."

Meet, Kitty. Our year and a half year old, lynx point, Himalayan [Persian] mix. Lol

Home

Honey looking at wild turkeys on our patio.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway
October 15, 2015