#69 Other wood: Walnut and butternut art by Rick Klompmaker

Walnut and butternut art

Some times a craftsman has to branch out.  He leaves his usual work behind or sets it aside to try something different.  His roots are still in his original love and craft, but something new beckons.  Even is other bark at him, he has to see what will come as a result of the new idea.

Close up 1

The kernel or bud of the idea takes shape in his mind.  He plants the idea on paper or in clay.  He grows the idea in his mind.  He tries all different shades of the idea.

Close up 2

Finally, his efforts bear fruit in a new project, a new technique, a new direction for his work, even though some friends and family might think he’s nuts.

Thing 1

Sometimes the idea turns into something really unique and pleasing, while other times he takes it out the garage to hide it or he sticks it into his car trunk to be disposed of elsewhere.

Original wood sculpture - Rick Klompmaker, artist

I really like the feeling of this piece.  There are two different woods here, black walnut and butternut.  But Rick has used different portions of the tree, heart wood, solid growth and sap wood.  He even has some spalted walnut adding color to the piece.  Another feature to enjoy in the piece, difficult to see in the photos, is the texture on the different parts of the work – rough cut, sanded, chiseled.  The shapes, both positive and negative, give a great look to this work.  Nice job, Rick.

“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”  Proverbs 18:21