Every license and permit I know requires adhering to a strict set of rules, except for artistic license. As an artist, there are no rules that apply. As an artist, I can freely draw things I want just about any way possible. Today, I got the urge to draw the beautiful split-leaf maple that has been on our property for decades. But rather than duplicate what I saw, I chose instead to use the tree as inspiration. The changes I made included dropping the background, flipping the tree, simplifying the top and adding a complex root system to match the top.
A solution to every challenge
I came across an old concept drawing from a project that was one of the first we created with our CNC router back in 2006. It brought back some great memories. The sign was for a couple who had two home-based businesses. One made stained glass, and the other had bees for honey production. The challenges were many on this project, but I was confident we could make it happen. The solution was to create a honeycomb with glass inserts, with bees buzzing overhead. They loved the design and asked us to make a sign that was at least nine feet tall. The city ordinance demanded that any sign taller than eight feet had to be engineered, which took the project out of their stated budget. The solution to this bureaucratic challenge was easy. I asked them to create a three-foot-high berm in their yard, which they could plant with colourful flowers. We planted the eight-foot-tall sign on top. Everyone was happy, and no bylaws were broken.
Almost ready to assemble
It is always a whole lot easier to add the wood grain texture to the bottom edges of the signs while they are still on the bench where I glued them up. Today’s task was to finish this job in preparation for lifting the second sign onto the plinth. We do this task using an air-powered die grinder, which makes things easy and quick. Next week we’ll be sculpting the stone on the planter. Stay tuned…
