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Stone Sculpture - The Direct Carving
Method
By Justin Blowers
The Direct Carving Method emphasizes the role that the
material itself has upon the finished work. Unlike
traditional sculpting methods, which are highly planned
and employ templates and intermediate models or
maquettes, the Direct Method involves a more intuitive
approach in which the sculptor observes the subject and
carves in collaboration with the material, thereby
allowing the natural qualities and essence of the stone
to be revealed.
When I began creating abstract sculpture, I intuitively
worked in the Direct Method, long before I knew this
technique existed. For me, the art of carving stone into
sculpture is a harmonizing of the discipline of my
traditional carving training coupled with his intuitive
style of sculpting. The artist begins the creative
process by selecting a block or boulder that exhibits an
individuality of color, texture or shape. Without a
premeditated design in mind, I then explore the
pre-existing qualities which are present in the stone
and looks for the inherent design. Using a variety of
handmade chisels and rasps, as well as several power
tools equipped with diamond blades, I begin the
reductive process of subtracting material and
exaggerating and amplifying the natural characteristics
of the stone.
The spontaneous process of the Direct Method allows for
new perspectives and ideas to unfold unexpectedly. The
emerging forms begin to influence the surrounding space
which helps dictate what the artist should do next. I
view this as an opportunity for the sculpture to begin
to create itself, recognizing that the steps needed to
complete the piece become more obvious. I am often
pleasantly surprised by the results of this
unorchestrated approach.
Once the overall design has been established, the piece
moves through increasing levels of refinement. Surface
textures can be chiseled for a rough look, honed and
smoothed with sandpaper, or brought to a high luster
with diamond polishing pads. Once again, the unique
characteristics of the stone can help determine which
finish is most appropriate. I then select a
complementary stone and fashion it into a base for the
sculpture. Both pieces are then carefully drilled and
bolted together, and the sculpture is thoroughly cleaned
and given a coating of sealer to protect it from the
elements.
By employing the Direct Carving Method into my work, I
seek to combine material innovation with spiritual
expression, transforming stone to sculpture with an
awareness of bringing out the natural beauty and essence
possessed from within.
Check out My Sculpture Site for more information and
images of my work. Thanks!! |
