* Hand Carved Stamps

Hand carving is something I've always wanted to try.  Not long ago, one of the women I correspond with through my mail art club sent me a hand carved stamp she had done of my ranch brand.  It's beautiful.  Here it is.  I keep it in a special box ... because ... well, it's special to me.

 A couple of weeks later, carving material showed up in the mail.  What could I do ... I had to try it.  There it was right in front of me ... no more excuses.  About a week ago, I purchased a carving tool at the art store here.  I am still suffering from a cold today ... but you know how that is.  I'm sick, but not sick enough to pass out in bed, and not well enough to go out and play.  Compromise.  I climbed into my bed with the carving material and tools.  I had fun.  I do love the primitive look of hand carved stamps.  In a Valentine card swap once, Ann Bagby sent me one of her hand carved stamps!  It was lost in the move unfortunately.  I think Ann's work is incredible .. I'm a huge fan.  'nough said ... here are my first attempts.  A crown, of course.  A leaf and a heart.  I left some of the background material on the stamp instead of carving it away.  I like the very primitive look it gives.  Reminds me of beautiful wood cuts.

La Luna.  6:02 AM.   She hangs in the sky in all her glory, believing she is the only one.  Shortly, El Sol will show her she is not.

I strive to give to others a sense of sacredness, because an art event is not just a formal fact but also a moment where you put a mark on your dedication. You must have a feeling of joining a tribe where there is the stick of command, because you are in a sacred place with its rules.
Enzo Cucchi 

Think about this quote.  I believe it to be true.