Cypress Knees and a Squirrel
Yep, a few cypress knees and a little squirrel are going to round out this piece.
Cypress knees are the cone like growth on cypress tree roots that you see poking above the water surface in many southern states. These knees are actually a favourite carving medium for many carvers and you’ll see them often carved in to little gnomes or mythical woodland creatures. It’s kind of funny that I’ve got that turned around and am carving the cypress knee itself. But, I think that it does add to the scene.
In addition, the little squirrel is just starting to take shape and will eventually be either offering or teasing the little hound with the acorn that it’s holding. Again, I think that it’s a nice little addition and something to give the standing pup something to focus upon.
Everything short of the squirrel has now had a light coat of white gesso applied and is ready for the painting phase. As usual, I’ll paint each piece separately and then pin and glue the pieces together after painting.
For a little added interest, there’s now a plank missing on the dock and you’re able to see the cross members and “water” beneath the structure. That was fun to carve…I used a scroll saw to cut through the dock and then dressed up the details with a carving knife.
By the way, my daughter and I just returned from a quick vacation in Washington DC. What a great time. We had never visited but I can tell you that I’ve wanted to see the Smithsonian for many, many years. We saw absolutely everything and were completely exhausted at the end of each day. If you haven’t been there, I can tell you that it was one of the best vacations that I’ve ever taken and would head back in an instant. Of course, being with Emily was a big part of that.
tributesinwood 