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Carved in Crete

9/11/2012

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I started this project last spring and am just now getting back to it.
I added some branches to the tops of the trees and attempted to flair the bases with pressure treated wood to be covered by wire lathe.
But I realy wasn't pleased with the outcome so I pulled out the welder and fabricated a pencil rod skeleton to attach the wire lathe to (this method allowed me to get a little more fluid with the shapes of the bases.)

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Here you can see the flexability you have when using the pencil rod , It's easy to bend to any shape you want with your hands and by welding you can securely attach it anywhere you please.

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Once everything is shaped and covered with the wire lathe it's time to get out the concrete stuff.
On these small trees and the branches it's a teadious process.
This is a rough application process working from the top down.(you cannot work the concrete much at all or it will just fall off of the lathe) the only way to do this is to apply a little at a time and at the most three swipes with a trowel then move on, and on, and on.

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After the concrete is applied you need to be patient and wait for the concrete to set up enough before you start to carve it, or again it will just fall off.
Using a variety of crude tools, a sharpened stick, a customized butter knife, some rolled up wire lathe, a stiff brush and a soft brush to name a few.
you start carving letting your imagination be your guide.

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This a very labor intensive process but the results are outstanding, I don't know of another way to accomplish this type of detail.

These will look really cool once they have been painted and glazed.

Another display to show potential customers.  This type of work needs to be seen, It's difficult to explain it.

stay tunned for the finishing touches.

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    Author

    Donald A. Johnson

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    This is an on going story of my explorations into the artistic world,chronicling the process of this journey.    Highlighting my successes as well as my failures. I'll try not to focus on the failures, but they are what has taught me the most.
      I Owe the ability to take this journey to; My Mom
    (for she bred in me a drive and creativity required for this type of trip) My Incredible Wife and Children for their support, and to the world of creative people that inspire me everyday.
     One in particular is Dan Sawatzky (click here to meet Dan) This Guy has Changed the way I look at things. He is truly an artist and a Visionary with passion.

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