After working so long and hard on my rock sculptures for the Feb. Tucson Gem Show, when the Show’s over, I like to take a break and work on other projects, one of which is picture frames. I make these from steel, copper, angle iron, aluminum, and other metals, usually burning the edges with a cutting torch, and then rough welding or hand riveting them together which gives them a very “old”, or “industrial”, type look. Each one is made for a specific image, painting or print. I’ll try to pick something interesting out from this image and bring it out onto the frame. Continue reading →

I’m asked, from time to time, why I use the figures I do in my work. For me, the answer is very easy. My whole “Fantasy” theme is just such a natural fit for the stones, crystals, minerals and these figures. They all go together so well. For example: I don’t think a very high quality Wizard figure, holding a wonderful Quartz crystal, mounted in front, or on top, of a fine mineral specimen, would have the same effect if it were mounted on a seashell, or some other non-complimentary item. And the same is true for all the figures I use. Continue reading →

Central Arizona weather can be pretty brutal this time of year. Between the excessive heat warnings, crashing thunder, lightning, high winds, dust storms and heavy rains that roll through, I am forced to work on many of my pieces inside. The metal work along with the cutting and finishing of my wood bases has to be done outdoors regardless of the weather. Continue reading →