Bird out of the Nest - Original Sculpture

Material: Wood, wire, mirror

Approximate size: 10' x 10' x 8'

"Bird Out of the Nest" is a reflection of chaos, potential, and transformation. Inspired by the perpetual pull of birds in my creative life and their symbolic resonance, this piece explores a moment of tension—a bird seemingly tumbling from its nest, on the brink of disaster or flight, with the wind poised to carry it skyward.

The journey began with a stunning yet modest burl, too small for a traditional sculpture but brimming with potential. Its story unfolded as I worked with it, revealing its need for both its top and bottom textures to be celebrated. The mesmerizing grain below and the lively, whirling pattern above demanded equal attention, brought together through the mirror to reflect and magnify their interplay.

The central hole became a channel for energy—motion bursting through the material, connecting it to the dynamic forces that inspired it. Walnut provided a warm contrast to the burl, adding depth and grounding to the piece, while the metal element emerged from my recent foray into welding—a personal milestone commemorated within this work.

This piece marks a transition in my artistic journey. Having spent five years as a tobacco pipe carver, I honed my sculptural skills in an intimate, craft-focused context. Now, I seek to pivot to something new, using those same skills but in a more expressive, artistic form. "Bird Out of the Nest" embodies that shift—a departure from the precision of pipe carving to the open-ended possibilities of artistic exploration.

Though birds always inspire me, this piece also nods to their current significance in global conversations. Yet, beyond my intentions, the ultimate meaning lies with the viewer. "Bird Out of the Nest" invites you to feel the tension of potential, the chaos of change, and the beauty of energy poised on the brink of flight.