March 11 – 25, 2006
Proceeds to support 2006 Canadian Specialties
Eastern Regional – July 13-15, Milton, Ontario
National – August 10-13, Winnipeg, Manitoba
"SALUKI" is a high relief sculpture depicting
this ancient and beautiful breed in motion. It is made of natural
and composite stone through a process that combines clay modeling
with cutting into stone. As with many of my sculptures, this one
began with a search for "the perfect rock". Generally
this entails sifting through various formations until I find one
conducive to the project in mind. For the saluki piece, I wanted
a stone that would evoke by its shape, texture or surface pattern
the refinement and grace for which the breed is renowned. Ultimately,
I chose a slender plate of natural Muskoka rock, cut from the Canadian
Shield. Elegant in shape, with shimmering pink, grey and rust striations
flowing across its surface, this stone seemed the abstract embodiment
of the essential saluki qualities I hoped to portray.
After selecting a stone, my next task normally
involves formulating a pliable mixture of clay, crushed stone and
various pigments. From this mixture I model the figure, applying
clay directly to the surface of the rock. This process often takes
several weeks, with fine details added as the clay gradually dries.
During this period I also make necessary adjustments to colour and
texture so that the form blends naturally with the rock background.
Once satisfied with the figure, I begin cutting around and under
it, chiseling directly into the rock to create shadow and the illusion
of depth. This helps to bring the form forward, giving it a feeling
of three-dimensionality. With this accomplished, the process is
nearly complete; following a light sanding and an application of
a water-resistant sealant, the sculpture is ready. Made from an
enduring blend of natural and composite stone, it can easily withstand
fluctuating indoor humidity levels and will require little future
care beyond an occasional dusting with a soft brush. Size roughly
14 x 7, Saluki is approximately 9 inches from nose to tip of tail.
Frances Hallman-Chong, Canada
The winner will be contacted after the
auction ends to arrange payment and shipping.
Shipping: The
package in question is 14.5" x 11" x 6" and weighs
5.5lbs. Based on this info, I have recorded several sample destinations,
to give you an idea of the general price range. All prices reflect
the most economical rate; express and Purolator are higher.
* USA : California - $19.60, Michigan and
Ohio - $15.66 (For the States, I chose destinations far and near
to get a sense of the range.)
* Australia: $42.00
* S. Africa $45.00
* Japan: $41.16
* Germany and France: $39.51
