indoor sculpture

"Vortex" is going through a name change to "Peace Lilly" by Mike McCarthy

As I move towards completion on this sculpture from Indiana Limestone, I realize that "Vortex" is not the name for this one. I have settled on "Peace Lilly" The shape is so much more peaceful and serene than "Vortex" indicates. It has too gracefully of curves and lines to name it "Vortex". As I complete the piece, we will see if it sticks, but for now, "Peace Lilly" it is.

As for progress on this piece, it is entering its final stages. I am in the sanding process. This is the only part of sculpting stone that I don't enjoy. It is a necessary evil to end up with a really cool piece. I think I have one or two more days and then it will be complete and ready to move to a garden near you!

New Chisels from Trow and Holden by Mike McCarthy

In todays news...I received 2 new stone carving chisels in the mail today! I know many would ask whats the big deal, but for me, I am in heaven when I get new tools. I decided to get some larger tools to work on "Cir Liberum". I hope these tools will help me fly through the stone!! The toothed chisel is 2.5" wide. the Flat is 1.25" wide. I will let you all know how well they carve in a bit. (I know you can't wait for the update!!)

Progress Being Made by Mike McCarthy

The latest progress shot of "Vortex"

The latest progress shot of "Vortex"

On my "in-progress-work" page, I have posted an update on "Vortex" as well as a new untitled (for now) alabaster piece. 

"Vortex" is starting to take shape. This is a larger gallery scale work I am carving. It started as a 250 pound block of Indiana Limestone. It has lost a lot of weight and is now down to where I can at least lift it to the carving table without a crane. I am working on thinning out the entire piece as well as refining the shape. I think the progress is good. I have not decided if I will penetrate the sides of the piece yet, but right now, I am leaning towards it. We will have to see what happens as I move towards completion. I plan to show this piece in the show at "KORE Gallery" in October.

Untitled new work in Turtle Shell Alabaster

Untitled new work in Turtle Shell Alabaster

The second piece is a new alabaster work. This is the first time I have worked with a stone called Turtle Shell Alabaster. The stone is really unique. However, it is very difficult to carve. the alabaster falls apart very easily. Yet, it is also a very hard stone. It is hard to describe, but I can assure you, it will be worth the effort.