I started out by simplifying the shapes in foam, and then spreading on the clay.

Lonsdale stands 8 Ft. tall. The maquette to the right stands at 32″ high

I’ve got his jacket and vest covered with the first layer of clay.
Soon it will be time for some new tools!

fun shot: Here I am sitting on the platform where Lonsdale’s feet rest.

“City right to move forward with pier statue” 2/14/2012

“Despite artistic differences, statue plan moves forward”  2/15/2012

How can it be called art if not created by an artist?

The age old question “What is art?” misses an important point. Better phrased, the real question is “How can you call it art if it was not created by an artist?”

No matter what the process used, a work of art either reflects the intent, technique, and abilities of the artist, or it is not art at all. Recently, the Gig Harbor Arts Commission requested that a maquette (small model) of the proposed Maritime Pier sculpture be presented to the city council. Members reviewed a model, computer-carved, from a historic photograph using 3D modeling software.  This fabrication technique does not reflect the spark of an artist.

The artistic merit of the model and the use of 3D technology in its fabrication was largely dismissed as irrelevant given that the maquette was “just the model”, and wasn’t the actual life size work.  In reality, the maquette IS the work of art and represents the artist’s vision, passion, and talent from which the larger sculpture is derived.  As a modern day traditional sculptor, I embrace technology and use it to enlarge my work and accurately preserve my original intent. But utilizing technology to replace artistic intent is akin to fraud and cannot be called real art.  The community and any donors to the project should be saddened to know that the alleged “legacy” sculpture was not sculpted at all.

Sincerely,

Mardie Rees
Gig Harbor Sculptor

La Petite Fleur

“La Petite Fleur” is inspired by Camille Claudel’s portrait of a little girl (my favorite work of hers) titled “La Petite Chatelaine.”

Side View

Toddler portrait: beginings

Toddler portrait: a little farther along

A little farther along…

If I could just get her to sit still for me. Is that too much to ask? : )

Sharon

Francois

Sharon & Francois

Sharon

Another view of Sharon

Bob (Papa)

Rita (Grandma)

My Grandparents, Bob & Rita Wilkins

During August my grandparents came for a visit from Houston, Texas (they so enjoyed the break from the heat). Shortly before they left I had them each sit in my studio for a few hours while I quickly sculpted their portraits. I have been wanting to sculpt them for years and didn’t want pass by the opportunity I had this time.

Rita (side view)

http://www.realcarriagedoors.com/bronze-doors.php

Pictured:
Dawn and Dusk by sculptor Mardie Rees. The Art-nouveau inspired bronze panels contain the allegorical figures of Dawn and Dusk, cyclically welcoming each other as time passes in earthly rhythm. The dark tones of Mahogany give these art pieces the frame they deserve.

We are all excited to hear the reception of this beautiful harmony of handcrafted wood and rich bronze.

Before the door shipped we took advantage of a beautiful Saturday. We took the door into the woods – not an easy task beacuse the door weighed 200 lbs! Here are just some quick photos taken with my phone. The professional photos coming soon!

The logistics of getting it down a small trail and over a fallen tree trunk!

My daughter wondering what all the fuss is about!

Aren’t they beautiful?

How did the door get there!

Stay tuned as we approach the making of the larger than life size sculpture! Shawnigan Lake School and alumni are in the process of raising funds to complete the piece, a tribute to their founder which will sit in a prominent location on campus!

Front view

rear view