There is everything wonderful about traditional or classic art.
In the case of my art, this black Canadian soapstone grizzly. The stone used for this grizzly is from Northern Quebec, the carver (me, is from Southern Ontario) .
The inspiration is simple; well fed grizzly in nature. This guy is on the move and not ready for hibernation yet but, you can tell he must have had a successfully hunting season. He doesn’t look particularly aggressive , I would say more majestic. With the big head and limbs he is begging to be touched by onlookers and at least this bear won’t bite.
I would have to say that there is a depth to this black stone even though you can’t see it in photos. There are some places in the rock that are darker than others, little natural lines in the stones that are not cracks.. The challenge with black soapstone as opposed to Brazilian, Asian or Indiana pipestone if there is one, black stone is very hard. Think granite. Not very forgiving and requires very sharp tools. From a technical finishing point of view, he’s shiny because he has the protection of yes… wait for it… Clear Kote. The protection every stone bear needs from dings and things that might happen when he is shown out in public.
As with any art or boy scout – be prepared. It’s worth the effort to carve just the right bear with just the right attitude and it will speak to just the right client.
Sometimes it might be hard to give up a favourite piece but, when if this does happens, I go ahead and put the bear in inventory and price it , still consider it mine until sold (not usually at an outside gallery but on show in my home gallery) This works for everyone I think.
Please visit the shop to see more of my finished work, and thank you for coming by.
