The Moment of Truth
After months of anticipation, endless hours of work, and many sleepless nights Cavallino 2009 has come and gone. How can something you've spent a year preparing for go by so fast?
I still can't believe that just one week ago I was working around the clock to try and finish my 250 TR sculpture entitled "Heritage of Speed" for its' debut. I've been trying to rest in the aftermath of this weekend's events to regain my strength enough to get back to some semblance of normality. Now I know why sleep deprivation is such an effective means of torture!
The moment of truth came this past Saturday January 24th at the Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida. Things started out a little crisp in the morning when I awoke at 5 am but once the sun climbed up in the sky we were blessed with a chamber of commerce day. I'm convinced John Barnes has discovered a method to manipulate the weather because every year the conditions are perfect.
The artists were busy arranging their artwork in a tent just off the main lawn as the cars began to drive onto the field in the early morning sun. As I positioned my art work among them I briefly thought about what an honor it was to display with such an esteemed group. Many of the artists have been an inspiration to me since I began my art career and it was exhilarating to be in their company. I can only hope someday I'll be fortunate enough to join their ranks in the AFAS.
I'm very proud to say that my sculpture "Heritage of Speed" was a hit and was very well received. I had an incredible time talking to everyone and sharing my sculpture with the public. It's always rewarding to see other people enjoy and appreciate my art and it inspires me to create more. I especially enjoy the fascination and intrigue that surrounds every art show. The unique, handcrafted nature of my piece made sure there was no shortage of questions. It was a lot of fun to "talk shop" with everyone and explain the process of hand forming aluminum. I'm glad I had the foresight to keep a running tally of my hours because that was the question of the day. When guests heard that it took me just under 1,100 hours to complete I often wondered if the astonished look on their face meant that I was crazy or stupid. Maybe it's a little of both!
I hope that this show illustrated to everyone just what I'm capable of and the endless possibilities that could be commissioned. Although "Heritage of Speed" was quite large I tried to emphasize throughout the day that I could create any subject at any scale. Anything is possible from a small piece to be displayed in a foyer or something immense that could serve as a corporate focal point. The sky is the limit!
I'm currently in the process of having professional studio shots taken of my sculpture that would accurately convey its' presence. In the meantime, be sure to take a moment to check out the portfolio page for some crude shots I've included in a impromptu gallery. They are rough around the edges but they will have to do until I get some more professional images.
Last but not least a very special thank you to John Barnes for hosting such a wonderful event and for allowing me to be a part of it. I cannot express in words just how honored and grateful I am to have been among the artist of Cavallino 2009. I hope I can return next year.
Forza Ferrari!
posted by Anthony Lauro
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9:33 AM
