California Condor

Description

I recently saw a Condor at the Grand Canyon. These huge birds are critically endangered. In 1987 the 22 remaining birds were captured and bred; beginning in 1991 they've been introduced into the wild. As of August 2008 there were 332 known to be living including 156 in the wild. The wingspan of an adult is about 2.77 meters (9.1 feet). This one is about 9 x 6 x 2 cm (4 x 2.3 x 1 inch).

I use knives and chisels, not a power carver, to finish shaping the basswood. This technique gives crisper details. It is sanded smooth, and an airbrush or watercolor brush used to apply water-based inks, with some details being burned In. It is finished with 3 coats of water-based urethane, and signed and dated on the bottom.

Within the one inch thickness, using carving and painting techniques, I suggest a more fully round figure. It is a unique style, which I have developed over more than 30 years.

Though I use non-toxic materials, it is not designed as a toy for children.

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoy this sculpture which is entirely designed and created by myself.

Added on Nov 01, 2009