The Sculpting World Begins

I have known many Artists over my 30 year art career, but few have surprised me more than Artist Gary Cooley.

Gary and Karen Cooley opened their wonderful gallery in Sisters, Oregon this year. Gary was named "Artist of the Year" by "Safari Club International". Cooley presents art work that ranges from realistic to abstract, life-size to tabletop. Just beautiful bronze sculptures and paintings.

I asked Gary one day if he ever teaches classes and he responded that someday he might teach.  So I signed up on this piece of paper I found in the gallery.  Week after week went by and I would ask him when the class was going to be.  I am sure I became a little annoying but I have always wanted to learn. 

One day out of the blue Gary called me and said that I needed to stop by their art gallery. Within a few days I went to the gallery and Gary said he had something for me.

Sitting on his studio table was an armature that he made for ME!! I about died!

He handed me a pile of clay and said OK.."GO SCULPT"! I said "Don't I get a lesson?" Gary responded with a sound "NO". Then he said "You can do it...Go make that "Ms. Elizabeth Chipmunk"! 

I stood in my studio the next day staring at the pile of clay. I am so excited to start a NEW journey in my Art Career. A little nervous but I reminded myself that it is just clay. 

So...I will keep you posted on the progress of "Ms. Elizabeth" my well known chipmunk!

The next time your in Sisters visit Gary and Karen at the "Gary Cooley Collection Gallery" at 353 Hood Street. I also highly recommend their website: www.garycooley.com.

Thank-you Gary for opening a NEW door for ME!