The Process of Creating a Stone Sculpture with Mike Greenfield

The Process of Creating a Stone Sculpture with Mike Greenfield

Stone sculpting is an art that has been around for thousands of years, and it continues to captivate and inspire people to this day. One stone sculptor who has made a name for himself in this field is Mike Greenfield. His works have been praised for their beauty, intricacy, and emotional depth. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at his creative process, using one of his stone sculptures, "Sunrise," as an example.

The Journey to a Beautiful Stone Sculpture

For Greenfield, the ultimate goal of his art is to create pieces that draw the viewer in and evoke emotions. He wants his buyers to be able to connect with their pieces on an emotional level, to feel what the subject is feeling. In "Sunrise," the smooth curves of the stone and the serene expression on the face create a sense of calm and introspection. The sculpture seems to embody the hope and renewal of a new day.
 
But how does Greenfield arrive at this final result? According to him, the process of creating a stone sculpture begins with the stone itself. He looks for stones that have interesting colors and shapes, but beyond that, he has no idea what he will make from them. Each stone presents its unique set of challenges, and it's not always clear whether a stone will hold together or polish well.
 
For "Sunrise," the stone was one that Greenfield picked up near Roosevelt Dam northeast of Phoenix. Using an angle grinder with a 5" diamond blade, Greenfield shaped the stone into a rough form.  He then smoothed it out with a water-fed angle grinder with diamond-infused rubber pads. He started with a 50 grit and worked up to 400 grit to finish the piece. Finally, he put a polish on the stone to bring out its colors.
 
The finished shape of the stone was determined by several factors, including the stone's original shape, how well it held together, its balance, and the colors running through it. Usually, the shape and color of the stone helped Greenfield decide whether to make it a male or female. When making the face, he looked to books for inspiration. He tried to pick the best qualities from them and combine them to create a unique and emotive expression.

The Art of Combining Skill, Intuition, and Emotion

Desert-jewel-working

For Greenfield, the creative process is one that combines technical skill with intuition and emotion. Each stone he works with presents its unique challenges and possibilities. Greenfield uses his experience and expertise to bring out the stone's unique qualities. The result is art that is not only beautiful and technically impressive, but also deeply moving and thought-provoking.

Stone and Bronze Sculptures for Sale

Greenfield's stunning stone and bronze sculptures are for sale at OnlineArtFestival.com. As a renowned sculpture artist, his works have been recognized for their intricate designs and emotional depth. Whether you're looking for a sculpture for your home or office, Greenfield's sculptures are sure to add a touch of beauty and meaning to any space.

Final Thoughts on Stone Sculptures

Mike Greenfield's creative process is an inspiration to aspiring artists and art lovers alike. His ability to infuse his sculptures with such profound emotion and meaning is truly remarkable. Greenfield's works serve as a testament to the enduring power of art to evoke feelings and provoke thought. They remind us of the human capacity for creativity and expression, and of the importance of embracing our emotions as a means of connecting with the world around us.

For those interested in exploring the world of sculpture, Greenfield's collection is not to be missed. His stone and bronze sculptures are masterpieces of design and craftsmanship, with each piece displaying a unique blend of form and substance. Whether you are looking for a striking centerpiece for your home or office, or simply wish to appreciate the beauty of these works for their own sake, Greenfield's sculptures are sure to impress. With their intricate details and evocative themes, they offer a window into the artist's soul and a powerful reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit.