In the Workshop today – ferns

After carving Gold Leaf  I’ve had many requests to carve similar pieces, with a variety of leaves, sprigs, flora and fauna.  This one delicately describes the unfurling of fern fronds.  Here I’m drawing onto the stone in preparation for carving, trying to get the very specific way ferns hold themselves to fit onto the round of the stone ball.

I wanted to get the arcs, curves and curls of the stems carved in detail, and became engrossed in the pinnules, each dividing into lobed leaves.  Gorgeous shapes.

It is such a treat to see the carved stone fern frond sculpture in its new garden, these are images sent to me afterwards.  The planting in the garden is heavenly, the fern ball sitting proud, the centre-piece on a stone paved circle surrounded by swathes of soft coloured flowers and foliage, and real ferns!

It is very touching, and ultimately rewarding to see my creations in the very beautiful surroundings made for them by my customers.