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Wildhorse Gallery |
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Artist ProfileDon Van Horn |
 On the Lookout Wood |
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As a Colorado native, Don Van Horn has spent his life close to nature and interested in art. When he was growing up, it seemed his family was either in the outdoors or doing some sort of project with their hands. Painting, sculpting, woodworking and carving have always been a part of his life. It was this exposure which laid the foundation for his mastery today. A quick glance at his art and one sees his versatility. On closer inspection, one sees his attention to detail. Whether it be a full-size carousel horse carved in the traditional manner, or a hummingbird so delicate and exact that most think that it's stuffed. Don's work captures realism and expression that few can match. Specializing in woodcarvings of birds, Don fabricates stems and branches from brass and wood, leaves of copper, and one-piece flowers carved from wood to bring his sculptures to life. "There's a tremendous challenge in working in wood. You only get one chance, and there's no room for mistakes." The final (and most difficult) touch is the painting. Done with multiple fine washes of acrylics, the finished product has a softness that makes his sculptures unbelievably life-like. His accomplishments include countless "Best of Show" & "Peoples' Choice" Awards at State, National, and International Carving Competitions and Art shows. Four Best of Show's have come at the prestigious "World Wildfowl Carving Championships" held in Ocean City, Maryland, each spring were he also has been selected as a judge. In 2002, he was awarded the Ducks Unlimited Wyoming Carver of the Year. |
