rust stains and patinas

["Dale Enochs" <denochs@xxxxxxxx>]

I am writing this in response to a question posed by Philip Whitley.

I intentionally use copper, bronze and steel knowing that they will patina
the stone in time with contrasting color. I have experimented with the
direct application of stains for color but I have not been satisfied with
the results. For my aesthetic sensibilities, those colors appear garish.
With or without the application of metals I feel time patinas stone. I enjoy
the addition of moss, lichens and airborne dirt as well. Additional staining
 from applied metals follows natural paths. I sometimes attempt to direct the
paths the staining will take through the intricacies of the carving. In the
end nature takes over and does as she sees fit. Nature appears to be much
more sensitive than I am. The pieces evolve through time.

Please know that when I use steel I take great pains to seal the face of the
steel that is adhered to the stone. I never use steel, (except stainless)
when penetrating stone. It can burst the stone.

Thank you for your kind comments.

Dale Enochs          http://www.daleenochs.com/