In 1987, I began experimenting with 3D word sculptures. The idea was to give interesting shapes to the letters, and then cover the letters with images of that word. The first one I made was "Jazz" (below). This is covered with images of my favorite jazz masters and related clippings.

The letters are constructed from fine chicken
wire and covered with numerous layers of newspaper and brown paper that had been
soaked in cellulose-based paste. After the
images have been artfully applied the entire sculpture receives several protective coats
that also give a sheen to the finish.
Wooden blocks are installed during construction
to which hooks are attached for easy wall hanging. I made and sold many of these for a variety of clients.
In 1988 I was commissioned by Joseph Horne Company, a major department store chain in Pittsburgh until the mid-1990s, to create seven
of my sculptures to depict life in the United States.
These works hung in their show-windows for two weeks. The great thing about it was that these huge windows were among the first things viewed
by anyone entering the city. It was superb
publicity.
American Cities
Rural Life
Sports and Recreation
The Faces of America
This one inspired the now-famous facial collage of great jazz players that circulated in Pittsburgh during the early 90s. It is a collage, on all sides, of over 20,000 faces depicting the racial makeup of the United States. It hung behind these Tiffle
lamps in the store's main window for two weeks.

It was a boost having these works displayed in such style as I was an
art student. After they were removed from the main store, they made
their rounds through the other branches for about another six months.
After that, they were unfortunately destroyed when the chain closed
after 100 years of business.

I hope you enjoyed them. Thank you for looking.
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