Bella

I love this sculpture. I love it for many reasons. Firstly, it was both an exciting and challenging interpretation from a model. While sculpting, wonderful sculptural volumes consumed me and the challenge came in scaling them down to human form. Secondly, this model conveyed a unique individuality. I met her first in a drawing session and after completing several drawings of her I knew that I had to sculpt her. As I critiqued my drawings I saw in every one that she brought a sense of pride and dignity to each pose. She didn't disappoint me while posing for the sculpture!

In today's world we are sometimes bombarded with (and, I believe become confused by) images of so-called "beauty". What is that? We see pretty paintings and photographs of "beautiful people", sculptures of pretty bodies in extraordinary poses. Opening fashion magazines one can become disillusioned at what "beautiful" really is.
Anorexic bodies with silicone breasts: Really, beautiful should come from one's whole being, not from what is perceived by the shell that we sometimes hide the truth of ourselves within.

You must know that while exhibiting this sculpture I have had many different responses to it. I really enjoy watching the reactions of individuals as they walk by; some turn their heads, others drawn in. Some react by their first impression: surprise, appreciation, embarrassment, humor, and others with distaste. For me, I believe this sculpture says "Celebrate Self!" and on a personal level it challenges me to work on unloading some of my own hang-ups and stereotypical insecurities.

But mostly, I love this sculpture because I think that she is beautiful, and so I call her "Bella"!