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About Mark Wagner Sculptured Burls |
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Burl is a rare natural out-growth on the trunk of a tree which was subject to a combination of unpredictable forces within its cells, creating beautiful highly figured wood. Prized for their unique character, no two burls are identical nor can they be produced on demand. Selected burls are sourced from throughout the world, all without cutting down nor endangering the tree.
Leaving the outside of the burl in it's natural state, the inside of every Mark Wagner Sculptured Burl is hand hewed . . . converting the wood into a vessel using only simple traditional 19th century hand tools. Carving in this old world folk art manner is a challenging and time consuming process; blending skill, labor and design into a shape of unmistakably distinct authenticity. Lastly, a hand rubbed finish of natural tung oil plus natural bees wax is lovingly applied to complete the reveal of the burl's beauty and wonder. Sitting on a base of a treasured object specifically for that burl, the completed original sculptured piece looks different from every angle – unpretentious, timeless, unique and comfortable. Art with an easy fit for both the indoor and outdoor landscape. An investment and statement for our appreciation of natural wonders, bringing an organic feel into an urbanized environment. With a reverence for wood and the outdoors, Mark Wagner creates each of his distinctive works completely by hand from start to finish...woodworking unplugged...for the process is as cherished as the end results. Success can be measured by recent awards won from the Midwest Museum Of American Art Juried Regional Exhibition; the Michiana Annual Arts Competition; and the Heartland Artist Gallery Juried Regional Art Exhibit, plus sold in select galleries and fine art shows throughout the United States. |
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''...creating artwork with an organic look and texture...'' - Mark Wagner