“ As you move around your piece the subject takes form .”
Blue ” is the name of the book written about the depression era murder . Cheryl is currently working on the Native American mom with baby on a bridle board , a public art piece for the Coeur d ’ Alene Tribe of Indians that is slated to be a life-sized replica once fully funded .
Cheryl has had the honor of fulfilling some very special private commissions as well . In 2008 she completed a life-sized black bear for a tenth anniversary . Cheryl ’ s “ Angel Baby ” was completed for a mom who was diagnosed with cancer during her pregnancy . She fought through the cancer while pregnant , carrying the baby full term . This was their angel baby in more ways than one . In 2021 a daughter commissioned “ Momma and Me ,” a piece depicting a young mom and laughing toddler . “ That piece was a special and powerful piece celebrating the love between her and her mom ,” shared Cheryl . You can sense the reverence that Cheryl carries for each of the pieces and the honor it bestows when asked to capture these special memories for clients .
While observers admire finished bronze sculptures , few of us understand the time and incredible attention to detail this medium requires . When asked about the process Cheryl provided this quick summary . “ I have worked hard over the years and can capture a likeness very quickly [ within a few hours ]. I thoroughly enjoy doing live sculpts . The energy is infectious , and my pace is a bit faster . However , with private commissions and public works the process requires more time to complete .” This process begins with research , live models ( when possible ), and photos . From there Cheryl creates a maquette — a scaled down version of the final piece — from wire . She then builds layers of clay to the maquette , until she begins to see her subject form .
Cheryl shared a tip as to how she keeps the pieces moving forward . She works to music that sets a rhythm for her . She has found this can expedite the process as she loses herself in the connection between the rhythm , the clay , and the subject . This is where the creative tension really sings . The process is deeply meaningful to her . Cheryl believes that you cannot force a subject into existence , “ As you move around your piece the subject takes form .”— confirming that it is not good to get locked in on a single feature or detail for too long . She shared that there is something magical that happens in this part of the process that embodies the logos mentioned earlier . There is a connectedness that exists in this moment .
72 ART CHOWDER MAGAZINE