Journal of new art

"Birds Up"

2011-06-18T21:32:29Z

After some finishing touches, "Birds Up" is complete. This was the theme of the sculpture from the beginning; and is now the title that Ann and Joe have so perfectly captured. We want to thank them for this opportunity to make more art. Being at the ranch and working with them has been a most delightful experience. Now Larry has "Birds Up" to add to his body of work.

Cultivated from many years of hard work and diligence from his heart, Larry has once again contributed his sculptural excellence.

The press has something to say

2011-06-15T18:54:33Z

As we stand back and admire the tree, we are amazed! Larry has turned this tree into a beautiful piece of artwork. This is an incredible feat. The local press responds enthusiastically as well. The Kerrville Daily Times, www.dailytimes.com, wrote an article June 6, 2011 titled "Transforming Nature".

The San Antonio Express, www.mysanantonio.com, came to the ranch for a story for the June 19, 2011 edition. This first picture is staff member Kin Man Hui photographing Joshua Creek Ranch president Ann Kercheville and sculptor Larry Lefner.

The second photo is freelance writer Pam Howell taking notes. Marketing Director Joseph Kercheville is to her right while Ann and Larry are to her left.

Signature

2011-06-13T15:31:54Z

Being the pure woodworker he is at heart, Larry chisels his signature into the tree.

Paint

2011-06-13T15:18:24Z

Color is added to the pheasant for definition. The creation of this sculpture is unique. Yes, we love PURE wood and the grain of it; and we also feel that embellishment with color only makes this particular work more beautiful.

Looking up

2011-06-12T20:52:10Z

Standing next to the sculpture looking up............

A Change from this...

2011-06-12T20:36:35Z

While working many long hours in the hot Texas heat, a design change in the tree sculpture is being contemplated. The decision came after thoughtful collaboration with Ann and Joe.

The profile of the pheasant will stand out clearly by trimming the grass behind the bird. The sculpture goes from this...

To this....

Close-up of grass

2011-06-03T17:54:14Z

Here, the right side of the grass is almost complete and the left side still needs to be worked.

The top of the blades of grass

Grass sets the background for the entire sculpture

2011-05-26T16:17:37Z

Grass is big work too. For this part of the sculpture Larry got power for his tools. One is a one-inch belt sander, the other is a saws-all.

Persistance and years of experience make the pheasant almost complete in a timely manner.

2011-05-26T15:23:52Z

Here is a close-up of the pheasants head. Also, below is a picture of the grass with the pheasants tail behind the grass.

And looking better all the time

2011-05-22T21:30:19Z