Inspiration

Coccinella Novemnotata is a sculpture celebration of the nine-spotted ladybug.  C-9 is the voracious aphid-eating ladybug, the bug who gives all the other ladybug species a good name. 

I made a large version of this basic design, titled “C-9 of North America”, a couple of years ago using translucent orange alabaster, white marble, and black marble to create an opulent, graphic ladybug.

A Test

Coccinella Novemnotata is also a sculpture celebration of my vision, literally.  Last year I had a problem with one of my eyes, which has since improved.  I wanted to carve a simple exact form, one that you could easily tell if it was incorrect in shapes and proportions, as a test to see if I could, indeed, see with all the accuracy I had a year ago. 

I chose to revisit C-9 because I wanted to make sure I could create consistent round forms and see small details.  It was a nerve-wracking experience because my eyes are my best tools, along with my hands.  To lose my vision would be devastating.

Happy Results

The forms turned out exactly right, I passed my test and am quite happy with the results.  Both curved and flat surfaces were easy to see, volumes were quickly adjusted, lumps and bumps were obvious, easy to see and fix.  Perspective was true, not confusing from any angle.  I was able to realize my mental vision in this gorgeous stone; I didn’t have to stress and strain to see what I was doing.

Forward

Having passed my test, I will go forward with confidence.  I have a lot of sculptures yet to make.  To speak with one’s own voice through one’s own art is a most rewarding experience, one that I cherish, and one that I will continue for a long time to come.