For several years, Bayfield artist, Frank Moore has sculpted primarily in clay and
wood, often reproducing his works in plaster and concrete. His favourite media
to sculpt today are the wide varieties of limestone found throughout the Bruce
Peninsula of Southwestern Ontario.
It is in the nature of stone to change over time. The
challenge for the limestone sculptor is to discover and re-animate the organic
essence of a stone which was once literally alive. Carving life forms in
limestone calls the artist to imagine what lies entombed within and then
chipping away at what holds it captive until it is finally released from its
rough embrace.
Limestone from Ontario has been largely overlooked as a
carving medium by sculptors. Most limestone for carving has come from the
quarries of Europe or the United States. Ontario limestone has varied textures
and ranges in shades from off-white to green and brown.
With the theme ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’ in mind,
Frank has sculpted ‘Summer Solstice’.
For this piece he chose green Mara Limestone to capture the growing
power and warmth of all life.
Summer Solstice is symbolic of each of our personal journeys through
life. As the earth moves through
the seasons, our spirit is renewed; we are reminded of our deeper purpose, and
of all things bright and beautiful.
