Abstract Wood Sculpture - Acquiescent Motion No. 1 - Yellow Cedar Sculpture

When I picked up the block for this carving I thought it was still wet wood because it was heavier than I expected. But after cutting it in half I found that it was dry and that the growth rings were very tight and dense. Typically, the denser the cedar—the nicer it is too carve. Sharpening the blades may seem like a daunting task to the beginner, and may even be seen as a chore, but seeing the effect that a well sharpened blade has on the cut can make the whole process very enjoyable. The piercing of this form demands finer attention to the depth of the hole (thickness of that wall), as it will now be a visible element of the piece. By piercing the piece, the inner form is penetrated providing a deeper dimension to the work. As the theme strongly involves the interplay between material and emptiness, the recessed banks gently leading toward the opening represent a gateway, the smoothness of which reflecting our human experience toward quietness of the mind. How still must the motion be which acknowledges the infinite vastness and silent power of emptiness. Acquiescent Motion No.1 stands in this still energy, quietly cradling that field of boundless life demonstrating its affection and respect for that from which it is inseparable.