My first memory of a nativity set was at my Grandparents house in Great Falls, Montana. All I remember is that it was in a nonworking fireplace, seemed to have hundreds of characters (remember I was around five) and I left a couple of toy plastic cowboy and Indians behind the stable. They also had a painting of a nativity scene painted by their daughter (my Aunt Lea). My Dad inherited it and then it was passed down to me. It is hanging in my home office.
The next nativity set I remember is one my mom made in a ceramics class. I don't remember how long she did ceramics but by the time she was done there were plenty of wall hanging, small figurines, and dishes around the house. She did an exceptional job on this nativity set. When my parents died, I was lucky enough to inherit it.
As time went on, I started collecting nativity sets. These range from a simple Florentine set to hand made nativity sets produced by Fair Trade cooperatives from around the world. (it seems appropriate to buy nativity sets from organizations who treat the artisans fairly and equitably). I have fourteen nativity sets, here are a few pictures.
After a while, I decided to start carving my own nativity sets. Over the past 6-7 years I bought a few books on anatomy and carving human forms, I experimented with several styles and bought a couple of pattern books to learn the basics of carving the nativity. Eventually I decided I liked some of the detail work of the European carvers combined with the simplicity and antique feel of American folk art. I designed my own set, made clay figures to test my designs and started carving wood. I still have those clay models and am constantly redesigning the figures (I may move an arm, tilt a head differently or even totally redesign a character). I am also experimenting with new figures. I am working on shepherds that are sitting and kneeling, Mary and Joseph and a donkey walking towards Bethlehem and even camels and horses for the wise men. Below are a few pictures of some sets I have carves and some stable scenes I have experimented with.
Below is my latest nativity set. I entered it in the 2010 Idaho Artistry In Wood competition and earned a blue ribbon.
Most of my carvings are sold as commissions but occasionally I do some for immediate sale - check my For Sale web page. If you are interested in a commission please contact me. The carvings for immediate sale can be purchased with Paypal or by contacting me by e-mail or snail mail.
