Sculpture Helix 1, Turned Wood, Lathe Sculpted artwork, Dynamic Sculpture

This is called "Helix #1" it is first piece of an ongoing series I have been doing. The original inspiration comes from the composition of the DNA molecule. One of the primary goals of this series of lathe sculpted pieces is to achieve a sense of motion and movement from a stationary object. The pierced chopsticks create a dynamic pattern of movement that travels up and down the piece in a spiral as they wrap around the inner "vase".

Helix #1 is made out of River Red Gum (Eucalyptus), from Australia, and chopsticks. the process of sculpting begins on the wood lathe. I first turned the piece of River Red Gum into a hollow vase with an open top. Each "pierce" is precisely drilled prior to beginning an extensive sanding, polishing, finishing and buffing process involving over 25 steps. Then each chopstick is carefully inserted and permanently cemented in place. Overall Helix #1 is 7 3/4" tall and approximately 12 31/2" in diameter

This sculpture is inscribed on the bottom with my name, the year created (2009), the wood, the name of the piece and the name "Spiritwolf". All of my lathe sculpted art pieces are inscribed with this name. According to family legend, this was the surname of a long ago ancestor and is included as a way to honor my history.

This mesmerizing sculpture that would make a wonderful addition to anyone's art collection.