My new Santa

[Mike_M]

Hi everyone. It's been awhile since my last post. I must admit I'm a bit intimidated by some of the wonderful carvers that frequent this board. Such great work. 8) But I also recognize the cooperative spirit that is alive and well on this board. So I'm going to share a recent carving. Here are two links a front shot and a side shot. In my eye there is something wrong with the proportion when this guy is viewed from the side. I just don't know what it is. :-/ Can anyone help?

http://home.comcast.net/~moyermg/pictures/P1010026.JPG

http://home.comcast.net/~moyermg/pictures/P1010028.JPG

Mike good to see you back I think you did a great job on the Santa. I wouldnt change him leave him as is I think that maybe he is a little too thick so therefore his arms look longer I think that is where you get the proportion problem. Now mind you had you not said anything I wouldnt have thought anything of it. Try trimming him down on the next one and see how it goes. I do that from time to time and have tried to change it after it is all done and never like it once I have changed it. Just my 2 cents worth
Colin

I agree with Al...but santas are supposed to be fat aren't they? To nitpick, the head is a bit too large for the body, but that is not a bad thing...it is a caricature so its fine...I wouldn't do anything to it...if you don't like it, sit in on a shelf in front of you and look at it ocassionally while you are carving...all of a sudden you will discover what it is you don't like! I did that with a painting one time...took 3 days to figure out what was wrong but finally saw it!

[woody01]

Mike M,

That Santa is great.
I suggest that as you carve your figure you place it 5' to 6' away from yourself. View it at all angles from this distance and your eyes will tell you what needs to be done. Another way is to hold it near a mirror so you see your carving and the reflection at the same time.
Keep up the good work

Woody01

great looking santa-alot of good detail the eyes the basket.i agree with the comment to keep in front of you for the next one you can make any changes you think need to be made.
but i think he's great

[Callynne]

Mike, I think he's adorable!! You did a great job on him and I wouldn't change a thing. Don't worry if he didn't turn out just how you 'saw' him in your minds eye, each piece you do will take you closer to that.
Again, great job, you should be very proud of him! Callynne

[owlhause]

You did a great job Mike! Just keep carving!

Santa is a great subject to get creative with....some of the coolest ones I've seen have exaggerated the proportions...the way he leans, ect...

If you're trying for text book proportions, they'll come in time but don't forget to have fun with your carving along the way!

[Mike_M]

Thank you for your kind words and helpful hints. One thing is for sure wood carvers make a great community. 8)

Thanks again!

Mike

[Kenny_S]

It is intimidating to post picture of one's carving after seeing so many great carvings. However Mike, You have a great carving also. So don't be intimidated and keep on carving and posting your results.

[santagibbs]

Curtis and I think your Santa is as cute as can be. I wouldn't change a thing either. People love Folkart Santas and they come in all sizes, shapes, and colors! Some of the most collected ones are of unsual shapes. Keep up the good work and if you want to paint a purple cow paint one... that is what art and expression is all about...The Gibbs....