meeting sculptors

["John Halter" <halter@zzzzzzzzzz>]

When I first started carving I would attend every show or opening I could
and visit any sculptor who had open acccess by working in public places.  I
always found a warm greeting - until I mentioned I was a beginning sculptor.
Once they realized I was not there to purchase, a cold chill came over the
conversation.  I found them to turn distant.  If I had the courage to ask
how did they do this or that, I usally could tell I was getting misled with
only a partial answer.  I found this very discouraging, particullary when I
would attempt their half solution with negative results.  I had never been
involved in a pursuit where more experienced people were not willing to help
out beginners.  I believe it really came down to protecting their techniques
and secrets.

Overall, I believe this has greatly hurt the world of stone sculpture.
Stone carving is becoming a lost art.  It is difficult to find many books on
the subject and few art programs seem to offer more than a small amount of
classes.  I would say most of the stone sculptors I have met are over forty
years old, with few young people getting into it.  Although it may seem
attractive to be able to provide a rare offering.  The reality is that with
a lack of quality production in any field, the market shrinks and demand
decreases as consumers move to more visible offerings (bronzes, paintings).
Good competition is aiways good for quality players in any industry.  It
brings credibility to the market.

That being said, this group has been the exception.  This has been a place
where you can ask a question and the members make a sincere effort to help.
Again, thank you to all of you who have helped me.  I carve at a soapstone
yard where new sculptors frequently come to purchase stone.  I will admit
there are times when I feel interupted with their peering or questions.  But
I have found taking a couple minutes to answer their questions leaves me
feeling good when I see their enthusiam and feel their excitement of taking
home a new stone and some new knowledge.

Every artist should help grow the community.  If they have true talent it
will not be diminished by other's successes.

Regards,
John Halter
halter@----------