Spirits in Wood

Wildlife Sculptures & Caricature Carvings

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!   [View]

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!   [View]

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!   [View]

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.   [View]

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….   [View]

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!   [View]

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!   [View]

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!   [View]

Woodcutter

I carved this guy with Doug Raine and Bob Sorensen, two of the best caricature carvers around in my estimation. He was hard to carve getting one leg tucked in behind the other and the arms angled back holding the basket on the back. I finally got around to adding some wood sticks in the basket after this photo was taken.   [View]

Ole Get-Along

Well, you have seen these two previously as Best Friends. The setting allows you to place the old cowboy on the back of the pony and this is what it looks like. I’m not sure which pose I like the best and can go either way depending on how I feel!   [View]