Ann prefers to work from direct observation and her own photographs, often visiting world-class zoos, wildlife parks, and canine and equestrian sporting events with her camera to search for inspiring subjects for future artwork. She also maintains a reference library of magazines, books, and videos on various wild animal species and domestic breeds. Continuing education in sporting traditions and animal anatomy makes her work accurate in detail while direct observation gives her insight into the behavior and individual mannerisms of the animals she sculpts.
Ann begins most of her sculptures by producing drawings of the concept to determine pose and scale. She then forms an armature of twisted wire shaped much like the skeleton of the animal or figure she is depicting. She adds plasticene clay (or wax for smaller scale sculptures) in layers upon this wire frame to reflect the underlying bone structure and musculature. Once the proportions and anatomy are correct, she finishes the surface by adding details such as fur textures or riding equipment to complete the total image.
Not always content with ultra-realism, she occasionally sculpts more abstracted animal forms. Her stylized sculptures vary in surface treatment and convey the essence and spirit of the animal through form and gesture without including minute details. Whatever approach Ann takes to create her sculptures, the viewer can sense the mood of the animal at a glance through the animal`s pose and expression.
|
