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WILDFIRE
DRAGON
A CLOCK
IN THE MAKING
The wildfire season of 2003 was devastating in the North Thompson Valley where Michael makes his home. People spoke of the fire as a living, breathing entity with a strong temperament and an unpredictable nature. This monster, they said, could send fire balls to cross impossible gaps, using its force by day, sleeping at night, awakening with a roar as the day warmed and the breezes stirred. Deeply affected by his own personal experiences and emotions, as well as those around him, within weeks of his return, Michael was sharing his designs for a monument with the local chamber of commerce. The “Wildfire Dragon” is the symbol of the fire that imprinted us in history and is a tribute to the human experience. The “Wildfire Dragon” will be dedicated July 26, 2008
We got a call from a local mill to say they finally had a log with the dimensions that would suit the project. At eight feet long and 112 inches around getting this thing moved to the studio was a heavy process. Thanks to North River Towing for the help in getting the log from the mill to the studio. After months of waiting we were finally able to begin the actual process of bringing the monument to life.
Due to the massive size of the log and the height of the finished product there was no way the log would fit in the studio. With the bulk of the work being done during the winter months there was no way the carving could be done out doors, so with this in mind Mike decided to build a temporary addition to the studio around the log. In order to get the log in place we had to bring in a large construction crane.
First things first. Mike cuts away the rough end away in order to create a level and solid base on which the log can be erected. Cutting through a log of this size is no small task.
Using the crane the massive bulk of the raw log is lifted and manipulated on to it’s base. Now firmly secured in place the temporary shelter can be built around the log.
The new addition to the studio workshop to encompass the log nears completion.
Now fully shielded from the elements and able to keep the log in a temperature controlled environment the roughing work can begin. First with chainsaws to cut away the bulk then to progressively smaller cutting implements, Mike begins to map out the initial form of the sculpture. Over the next few weeks the actual concept begins to emerge from the raw log. Step by step the sculpture will become more refined and the details will come to the forefront.
A glimpse into the multitude of stages of transformation the wood goes through as the form of the dragon eventually takes shape. Inch by inch the wood is chipped and shaped towards it’s final form.
With the bulk of the shaping and carving completed, the sculpture undergoes various treatments to achieve colors and textures. The tree for instance, is burned to give it a life like look of an actual fire scorched tree.
The monument is now finished and awaiting it’s installation and unveiling. Please keep an eye on the news page for the actual date announcement. To see images of the completed sculpture visit the monument page here.
Michael Morris Gallery
Wildfire Dragon Monument
All contents copyright Michael Morris 2008