Artist statement
Once a week for seven years I was a docent at Lincoln Park Zoo. When not performing structured tours, talks, or manning kiosks, we would stand by an exhibit and talk to the public. The topics would include endangered animals, hunting, poaching, habitat destruction, global warming, how to prevent these, captive breeding, and general zoo and environmental questions.
But the most asked question repeatedly was, “Do these make good pets?”
I’m sculpting to 1/6th scale, medium to large mammals. My method of sculpting is similar to taxidermy. I start with a wire armature covered in an aluminum body mold. I cover that with a skin of polymer clay, shape, add details like fur and eyes, cure, and finally prime and paint. I mount this into an aquarium habitat using museum display techniques to create “surreal dioramas”.
These are perfect pets for all Americans. You don’t have to walk, water, feed, groom, clean, change litter, or go to a vet.
Enjoy!
But the most asked question repeatedly was, “Do these make good pets?”
I’m sculpting to 1/6th scale, medium to large mammals. My method of sculpting is similar to taxidermy. I start with a wire armature covered in an aluminum body mold. I cover that with a skin of polymer clay, shape, add details like fur and eyes, cure, and finally prime and paint. I mount this into an aquarium habitat using museum display techniques to create “surreal dioramas”.
These are perfect pets for all Americans. You don’t have to walk, water, feed, groom, clean, change litter, or go to a vet.
Enjoy!