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Otters
This album spotlights a few otter carvings in close detail. My first contact with otters was as a boy. The pond behind the local church was home to otters year after year. Their playful romp around the boat sure did dampen the fishing, but no one cared. I have used a variety of woods to create these sculptures. Eastern Red Cedar (roots) is a favorite because of its spectacular color and grain. I do not color my sculptures, but rather include the grain direction, color and movement as an integral part of the finished piece.
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"The Chase"
We think of otters in many ways. One of my favorite scenes is the otter as a fast swimming hunter. Spotting his prey from the surface, this otter is swooping down on a brook trout. Smooth and streamlined, his movements are mesmerizing.
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| The natural flow of the wood grain enhances the flow of the otter, amplifying his movement. The oval base is made of mahogany, |
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| The Trout is carved from a "twisted" area in this tree root. It is part of the log. This view allows the viewer a strong sense of movement. |
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"The Chase"
Eastern Red Cedar on Mahogany Base
13"L x 7"W x 12" H
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"Bluegill's Surprise"
Playful, carefree and very curious would well describe an otter.
An unsuspecting bluegill is being sized up for dinner.
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| This scene was sculpted from one piece of red cedar root. Visualize the tip of the tail as the deepest part of the root and the flat end as the cut stump. |
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"Otter Playtime"
The name says it all. Otters will play in pairs and as a family.
This sculpture depicts above and underwater activity. "Otter see, Otter do."
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| This sculpture is comprised of 3 pieces of black mesquite. It is very important that the flow of the wood grain match that of the movement of the otters. |
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Black Mesquite
Approx. 15"w x 9"h x 6"w
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"Diving Otters"
Deep diving in pursuit of fish. This sculpture was carved from a single red cedar root.
By turning the sculpture upside down you can visualize the deep root (the otters tail).
Easter Red Cedar Root on Mahogany Base
26"H x 10" Diameter
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"Lookout"
Always alert, this otter takes the high ground looking for the next best place to play. With few natural enemies he is confident and a little proud.
Eastern Red Cedar
22"H x 8 diameter
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