Close to the stone

["Charles Kibby" <chzmo@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

"hand tooling preserves an aspect of
the stone that chemicals nullify"

I know that I've taken your comments out of context but this does seem to
nicely sum up the interesting issue raised regarding the use of chemicals in
the creative process.  What difference does it make what means or methods
one uses to explore the infinite possibilities of natural materials such as
stone?  I wonder if those who do agree with the concept that
'extracurricular methods such as acid etching are less close to the stone'
are in love with the process of stonecarving rather than the broader issue
of artistic expression and accomplishment?

chaz