Other than a weekend here and there, I haven’t actually taken a total vacation for nearly a year. The studio calls me with urgency and it seems that I can never get caught up on the business part of art life. The excitement of launching a new sculpture series has my total commitment. The series began in my head during this very month last year. I’ll write more about the series soon. I haven't indulged in creating a non-commissioned piece in over seven years...! My heart yearns to the point of pain for all that I desire to express. The voice compels me to ....believe.

Begin I must. The new log stood for over a week without me making a mark. A blank canvas while inviting can also be intimidating. Plus the built up pressure and tumbling ideas of a NEW series…! Like a climber at the base of a towering peak, I found myself fiddling with my “gear.” Preparing mentally, spiritually and physically to begin this new journey. I trust the process but where to begin?!

Then a friend arrived from Texas. I shared my space, place and Montana springtime world and didn’t work for FIVE whole days. The endless office duties were totally ignored. We spent a few rainy evenings drinking wine while sitting in front of the new log in my studio. Just being with the piece is important to my process. My sketchbook had pages of sketches done before Jeffery’s arrival but none were just right for this particular hunk of wood.

The morning after a plane took my guest back to Texas, I entered the studio, lit incense, pulled on work clothes, played music and began this drawing. Each morning the rest of the week I tweaked the drawing ‘til finished. I believe the mini-reprieve, a little "stay cation" without actually leaving was just what I needed.

Now the carving begins…