Book Review: Direct Stone Sculpture - March/Apr 2008

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Created: Sunday, 02 March 2008 05:35

When I began sculpting stone in the late 1990’s, several seasoned sculptors recommended Liebson’s book to me for additional guidance. I found the book to be most helpful and it has occupied a prominent spot on my bookshelf since. Particularly with the growing number of new NWWSA members in mind, I decided that Liebson’s book would be appropriate to review to inaugurate this column.

As for many of our members, stone sculpture was a second career for Liebson. After attaining success in business, he took up painting and then moved on to stone sculpture where he has received a good deal of recognition. For many years he has taught direct stone sculpture at Mercer County College, Artworks (The Visual Art School of Princeton), and the Clearbrook Community Association; all in New Jersey.

Direct Stone Sculpture begins with a photographic overview of early 20th century stone sculpture, which includes work by Rodin, Modigliani, Brancusi, and others. A latter chapter features more recent work by artists such as Arp, Noguchi, Moore, and Rivera.

The instructional chapters cover stone essentials, the use of basic tools, direct carving, power tools, advanced techniques, and marketing. The book closes with a bibliography, suggested readings list, and a list of suppliers (mostly from the East coast).

Liebson’s extensive teaching experience is well reflected in his writing. His instructions and advice are clear and concise, and he does not hesitate to offer his opinions derived from his years of practice. Throughout the book, his commentary is supplemented with numerous helpful photos and illustrations. Although he does include a relatively short, basic chapter on power tools, he makes it very obvious that he feels that the mastery of hand tools is of the utmost importance to the beginning sculptor.

For this reason, while advanced, power carvers may certainly learn some important “tricks of the trade” from the book, they might be better served by attending some of Dan Michael’s excellent power tool workshops at one of NWSSA’s symposia.

The only significant difference between the two editions of this book is the inclusion of a chapter in the second edition on the work of some of Liebson’s students. The photos of these works, as well as those of the author, offer a variety of forms that should stimulate the imagination.

I recommend this fine “how-to-do-it” book for your serious consideration. I think you will find it to be a valuable addition to your bag of tools.

Reg Akright Honored - March/Apr 2008

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Created: Sunday, 02 March 2008 05:16

The Snohomish Arts Council, headquartered in the historic Monte Cristo Building in Everett began, in l994, choosing one artist per year that they especially honor. This person is selected for the artistic merit of her/his works and also for supporting the artistic community as well as for actions and services in the art supporting communities.

Our own member, also know as Mr. Nice Guy (which he truly is), Reginald Akright has been chosen as 2008’s artist of the Year for Snohomish County, a large county with oodles of artists in it. Reg was on the Snohomish Arts Council for a number of years, made some public art for the City of Everett and is a busy member of the Everett Cultural Commission.

On February 23rd, during the annual H'Arts Auction of the Snohomish Arts Council, this happy choice was publicly announced. We all heartily congratulate you, Reg. The honor is well deserved.

And you should still have time to check out Reg’s solo, Artist of the Year show of his sculptures at the Monte Cristo Gallery in Everett continuing March 13 through April 17. For further details go to: www.artscouncilofsnoco.org and click on Gallery at the top of the page.