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Life-Size Elk Sculpture
Progress Pics (2009/2010)
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All images Copyright 2009-2010
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"Scale Model"
This was the original concept model, designed in 2005. It was completed using a Plasma-Cam computer controlled
plasma torch, then hand assembled and welded. A number of these models were sold. The artist then had to decide
how to proceed with the life-size equivalent. Many construction and material factors were weighed during the
design phase.
Click on the thumbnail for a larger format image.
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"Frame"
The initial approach was to draw the life-size silhouette of the elk on masonite panels, then
design and build a 1" square steel frame with mounting feet on which to attach the body panels.
Thanks goes to Wayne Mindt of Mindt Machine in Glendive in helping to design and build the frame.
Click on the thumbnail for a larger format image.
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"Wire Body"
After the body panel and frame was assembled, 1/4" hardware wire was wrapped
to shape the body and provide depth and dimension. The antlers were made of 1/2"
rebar, hand shaped to resemble elk antlers.
Click on thumbnail images for a larger preview window.
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"Rough Foam"
Once the wire was completed, polyurethane foam was applied. It was embedded
into the wire for strength. Several layers were applied to build up the body
shape. Thanks goes to Steve Bury of Hell Creek Music in Glendive for his help
and expertise in designing and building foam models.
Click on thumbnail images for a larger preview window.
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"Carved Foam"
After the foam was allowed to expand and harden it had to be carved down to a
more recognizable shape. This sounds easier than it was, and additional foam layers
had to be applied to fill gaps and holes between carving sessions.
Click on the thumbnail image for a large collage image.
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"Sanded Foam Body"
After a number of layers of foam and repeated carving and shaping, the body
of the elk starts to take shape. Only through repeated application, carving,
shaping and sanding did the body surface start to smooth and take proper form.
Click on thumbnail images for a larger preview window.
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"Body Skin Surface"
After the foam carving and sculpting was complete, a "skin" of a hardeneded
body putty had to be applied, smoothed, shaped and sanded. This gave the model
a more rigid body more easily paintable and weather resilient.
Click on thumbnail for a larger preview image.
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"Painting in Progress"
This is the primed model, partially painted. The general theme reflects people, events, places and things that
have helped shaped the history of man in a significant way. Some elements, for example, include Apollo 11 on the moon,
Socrates, Abraham Lincoln, ruins of Greece, Rome and Atlantis, Richard the Lion-Hearted... and more.
Click on thumbnail images for a larger preview window.
Painting updates (by date):
26 May 2010
23 June 2010
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"Final Clearcoat"
This is the final painting with automotive clearcoat applied. Thanks goes to Bob Hellman and
the crew at Bob's Body Shop in Glendive. They provided materials, equipment and tutorials on how
to complete the clearcoat. This enabled me to prepare my workspace and equipment to shoot two coats
of UV protecting clear that will prepare the model for outdoor display. The finish enhances the
underlying colors and provides a degree of depth to the overall composition.
Click on thumbnail images for a larger preview window.
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"Final Mounting for Display "
This is the final installation on a 3' x 5' concrete slab, atop a small 5' hill in the front yard.
Thanks again goes to Bob and the team at Bob's Body Shop in Glendive. They helped me move
and mount the 250 pound completed model and secure the metal mounting plates to the display slab.
Solar spotlights will complete the display for nighttime illumination.
Click on thumbnail images for a larger preview window.
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Running Bear Creative Artwork
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Updated Sunday 08 August, 2010 10:19PM Mountain Time
