My work is inspired by the idea that all of the objects I cast from once had a LIFE ~ and I love to daydream about where that may have been, or what it could have been like ...
I am also fascinated with all animals and their talismanic attributes. My hope in making these pieces is to inspire the wearer to bring forth characteristics (of animals) they may already have and hope to strengthen, or better yet, strive to attain. It is well known that many Non-Western and American Tribal cultures believe that the spirit of an animal could be forever honored and carried forth into perpetuity when it's talisman was worn by a human counterpart. Therefore, I feel that these pieces are as much a piece of history as they are art.
It is believed that by wearing animal teeth, claws and bones - the spirit of the animal is transferred to the wearer - and the animals energy&spirit can be kept alive forever ... I still marvel at the beauty of the tiniest bird femur, or the pygmy seahorse, and the lion's claw ~ each time I find and make a new piece from one.
Truly, I enjoy making these pieces! I have collected oddities and beauties of nature since childhood ~ it all just makes that much more sense to me now ...
I am always willing to discuss casting custom work from your very own object of affection, or memento from a special day!
•If you are in or around San Francisco, stop by Paxton Gate on Valencia, and peek at my work in person ~ stay a while, it is a wondrous place! www.paxtongate.com *Home Products*
