Now that the box is done it is time to begin assembling and finishing the pieces that will sit on top. To fulfill the rules, the design must include the word 'SIGN'. On my project SIGN will form the base of the planet. The top surface will have a radial pattern from the rocket blast. I cut the letters on our MultiCam CNC router and then glued them to the specially shaped backer. Two identical pieces were done for front and back. The top was hand shaped. Then the fun part began - the hand sculpting. In a short time it came together nicely and I mocked it up to check how it looked.

Normally we like to do all of our assembly before we start the painting process but with the intricately layered design on this piece I will be painting the pieces as I work my way to the top.

The bottom piece (below) is finished while the top still needs it's final glaze. Gilding is next. Stay tuned...

Inspirational view

Inspiration comes from many sources and it is always all around us. Being in a rich environment is important. We positioned both our house and studio to take advantage of the gorgeous views to the south of our property. I'll never tire of the view for it changes minute by minute each and every day. This is my view from the dining room towards the studio.

Now on to the inside

They say you can't tell the contents by the wrapper...  but the truth is that often the outside of the package does give some clue to what magic hides inside. In the case of the 2016 Sign Challenge I suspect most of the contestants are going to pull out the stops on both the shipping boxes and the display piece inside. When one is up against more than a dozen of the best sign makers in the world we can expect no less.

I've now finished the box for my piece. Being one of the first out of the gate bears some risks and I'm fully aware that others are watching with great interest. The upside is that my design won't be influenced by any of the others. My intent is to build at a leisurely pace, pushing at the front end so there will be no crunch at the finish. The downside is that everyone following will know what to beat, how high the bar is set. But the reality is that everyone knows to bring their 'A' game, to build in a style they excel in. Every entry is going to be fabulous I'm sure!