This is an ode to an aging hippie who stayed the course but knows it is all a farce (note his crossed fingers on the right hand).
Sleeping Hound
This is a small carving with little detail concentrating on single gouge and knife strokes to give definition.
Morning Mug
The first mug of coffee in the morning hits the spot before you tighten the suspenders, slip on the boots and go to work. The hat is always the first thing on while the coffee brews!
Little Cowpoke (Yellow Bandana)
This little guy was a blast to carve! He is all hat and legs with a thick mustache thrown in!
Hooch
I knew a cowboy once who was on top of his game in the mornings but had difficulty with the afternoons as added spirits he called “hooch” seemed to limit his ability to stay on top of his ride! Yep, he was nicknamed “Hooch” cause that was what he drank!
Pool Honey
This “pool babe” would frighten off most folks but you have to give her credit for trying and not giving up! On a good day this “babe” might be a bad nightmare!
El Gusano (The Worm)
The worm in the small bottle says it all! This is a rough-out. Using a design by noted caricature carver Dave Stetson. Includes a bottle of Mescal!
Best of Friends
You kind of get the feeling these two grew old together! If you want, the carving of the old guy can actually be mounted on the back of the horse or standing with one another like in the photo.
Jest Kidden
I wanted to capture a rugged guy who seemed to have a little personality and a personal joke to tell and who winked at you when he talked cause he had something to tell. This caricature got a ribbon at a show so I guess the judges got the drift….
Reservation Wal-Mart
I’ve spent a lot of time out on the Navajo Nation lands and have always appreciated the culture. The jewelry is where the wealth is kept and this guy is a bit of a throwback because of the flat brimmed hat and moccasins. The trading posts in the generation past were the place to shop and buy basic provisions, often leaving the jewelry as collateral until they had the cash. In a way I guess the the trading post was the only general store available!
Northern Maiden Waiting
I carved this maiden in full northern plains regalia and bead-work. But, she sure ain’t beautiful, and pretty darned homely and that’s why I am sure she is “still waiting” – even to today!
La Reina – Rodeo Queen
Now, I tried to carve a real good looking cow girl clearly having some assets that would interest a lot of buckaroos! It is hard to carve a beautiful female caricature! So, as I sat beside my lovely Hispanic wife several years ago I tried my best to transfer her to the wood. And, of course, I had to title it “The Queen” in order to keep peace in the household!