The Sculptor's Studio

Vintner's Hall of Fame Induction dinner 2011

2011-03-03T05:27:00.000-08:00

Annual Celebration of California Wine & Food and the Vintners Hall of Fame Gala Induction Dinner

Each year, the college holds A Celebration of California Wine & Food, a series of events celebrating the induction of new members into the Vintners Hall of Fame. Proceeds from the induction celebrations contribute to student scholarships.

The evening showcases coveted wines, artfully prepared wine country cuisine, and many of the wine industry's most noted personalities.

This years inductees included:

Richard Graff
Joel Peterson
August Sebastiani
Vernon Singleton
Bob Trinchero

Walter Scheib

"Boots" Brounstein whose husband Al was in the class of 2010 along with Warren Winiarski 2009.

Randall Grahm Bonny Doon Vineyard

Harry Kalas update via Dave Issac @ Philly.com

2010-11-29T12:06:00.000-08:00

Click here to see the latest!

A Happy Veterans Day to all of the great men and women who have served our Country!

2010-11-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

Jerry Stark Tribute • Meadowoods in St. Helena, Ca.

2010-11-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

On October 27, 2010 there was a ceremony at Meadowoods Resort in St. Helena, Ca. where they paid tribute to Jerry Stark, the croquet pro at Meadowoods for twenty years and member of the National Croquet Hall of Fame. Here is a photograph of the commissioned piece mounted to a bolder next to the croquet lawns.

Bill Harlan founding partner of Meadowoods along with Zack and Donna Stark.

Zack and Donna were also presented with a framed bronze cast of the relief from Meadowoods

The Jack Sieg celebration

2010-10-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Last week I was hosted by the University of Iowa's swim team boosters as the celebrated the unveiling of the Jack Sieg relief and their first meet. As always the folks at the University of Iowa, especially Rod lehnertz and Marc Long were incredibly generous hosts. It was also homecoming weekend so we were able to partake in an array of events including the I-Clubs Kick-off Breakfast, The Hall of Fame Luncheon, The Homecoming Parade, The swim meet and finally the game between Iowa and Penn State. look forward to my next visit to the Hawkeye State!

The swimming area in the new Wellness and Fitness Center at the University of Iowa.

Director of Planning Rod Lehnertz and Head Swimming coach Marc Long

Jack Sieg

The University of Iowa Football team making their way through the crowd to touch the "Kinnick helmet", a tradition started with the piece after the unveiling

The Kinnick Relief

Jack Sieg Sculpture at the University of Iowa

2010-10-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a news release about the opening of the new Wellness and Fitness Center at the University of Iowa and the large bronze which is now a tenant.

2010-09-13T13:48:00.001-07:00

Harry Kalas/Sublime eye photography

2010-08-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some new random shots taken by Sublime Eye Design of the HKMS. Chris and Nate of Sublime eye have donated their time and considerable talents to documenting the project from this end so check out their site they do amazing work.

Cornish Colony Artist's Guild

2010-07-07T10:04:00.001-07:00

At a small ceremony at The Cornish Colony Museum on Saturday July 3rd Lawrence was nominated as a founding member of the Cornish Colony Artist's Guild. "The Artists' Guild continues the artistic tradition of the Cornish Colony by promoting artists, authors, performers, musicians and other creative individuals who are continuing the artistic spirit of the Colony."

Gary Milek receiving his certificate from Museum director Robert Dean.

Gary Milek, Jane R. Ashley, Lawrence J. Nowlan and Robert H. Way. (William B. Hoyt not pictured)

Harry Kalas/Wipe-out Productions

2010-06-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday June 23rd Curtis and Drew from Scott Graham's production company "Wipeout productions" of Philadelphia arrived in Windsor to shoot some documentary footage of our Harry Kalas Memorial Statue project. It was a long couple of days and I cant wait to see what they came up with. Not only filming work at the studio they were all over the area filming the beautiful Vermont scenery.

The first step in the acquisition of wisdom is silence, the second listening, the third memory, the fourth practice, the fifth teaching others.
Solomon Ibn Gabriol

Another huge step.......

2010-06-28T04:41:00.000-07:00

In November we started this project......today with the blessing and absolute approval of the Kalas family we will be shipping the finished 7.5' clay figure to Laran Bronze in Chester, Pa. for molding and casting. We have passed the halfway mark in fundraising goal and will continue to raise funds through creative efforts including limited edition "Harry" bronzes.

We will be presenting images of the final piece to the Phillies front office as soon as possible and will be sure to let you all know when that will be.

Its a great day to be a Philadelphia sports fan!

The FANATIC 95.5 - The Harry Kalas project

2010-01-27T13:47:00.000-08:00

Was on WFAN 95.7 espn talking with mid-day hosts Harry Mayes and Tony Bruno about the Harry Kalas project , check it out here.

Harrykalasstatue.com

Jim Johnson and DeSean Jackson bas reliefs

2009-12-28T05:58:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple shots of the bas reliefs that I presented to the Eagles last week.

Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt.
William Shakespeare

The Birds!

2009-12-22T13:02:00.001-08:00

On Friday December 18th my Godson and I had the opportunity to present a relief portrait of the Late Jim Johnson of the Eagles to Owner Jeffrey Lurie, his wife Christina and Coach Andy Reid. We were also there to pass one along to DeSean Jackson the outstanding second year wide receiver. Special Thanks go out to Tom Carmody -VP of Video for the Eagles for setting the presentation up as it was a wonderful experience for both Dan and myself.

Jeffrey and Christina Lurie
Meeting Coach Reid with Jeff Lurie
Coach, myself and Danny
B. WEST!
Danny, DeSean and yours truly right after I told DeSean that Danny said he could take him in the 100!( I lied)......after the hysterics DeSean says "So Your pretty quick huh?" to which Danny replies 'Well, I have kinda deceptive speed..." more hysterics followed!
D.Mac...not sure what we were laughin at here....
Sheldon was one cool cat, the old vet was really gracious..

Harry Kalas Monument - WIP 610 Sports Radio

2009-12-22T10:36:00.000-08:00

I was in Philly for a family Christmas visit and was able to promote the Harry Kalas Statue with a quick appearence on Angelo Cataldi's morning show on WIP 610 sports radio, one of the top sports stations in the country. Angelo, Al Morganti and Joe Conklin ( Local comedian) were in the house and are all on board. Howard Eskin I met while down at the Nova Care complex and he also is very excited and on board with the project!

"One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself." Leonardo Di Vinci

Harry Kalas Monument - part II

2009-12-15T05:47:00.000-08:00

The movement to create a monument for Harry Kalas rounds first!

Please contribute: Harrykalasstatue.com

The Harry Kalas Monument

2009-12-14T13:38:00.001-08:00

I will be appearing on The daily News Live wednesday evening between 5-6pm and on WIP's morning show with Angelo Cataldi between 9-10am on Thursday morning to speak about the Harry Kalas Sculpture project - tune in!

Kalas fans hope to honor him with statue

2009-12-08T03:49:00.001-08:00

Kalas fans hope to honor him with statue

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Harrykalasstatue.com

2009-12-05T17:55:00.000-08:00

Today two members of our team (ReRe and Suz) secured support for our cause from two Philly greats: Milt Thompson and the one and only Michael Jack Schmidt!

Please support the cause: Harrykalasstatue.com

Way to go girls! "Yer OUTTAAAAA HEEERRREE"!!!!!!

Harry Kalas Monument

2009-11-23T17:43:00.000-08:00

Please help support this unprecedented undertaking!!

A petition to create a memorial statue on Facebook caught the eye of big time Phillies fan and renowned realist sculptor, Lawrence Nowlan.

The original petition now numbering nearly 20,000 signatures, was started by Antonio José who says, "Philadelphia has a Rocky Statue. Don’t you think Harry has done more for this city than Rocky did?" Since garnering so many followers thepetition has been reported on in the Philadelphia Daily News and philly.com.

Harry Kalas Monument

Vintner's Hall of Fame

2009-11-23T06:06:00.001-08:00

Wine Tube TV: The Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley from StarkSilverCreek.com on Vimeo.

More to come on this story...

2009-11-16T06:10:00.000-08:00

Honoring Harry

POSTED: November 16, 2009

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ON APRIL 14, the day after Harry Kalas died, avid Phillies fan Antonio Jose started a petition on Facebook seeking support for a statue of Harry to be erected outside Citizens Bank Park.

A few weeks later he had a couple hundred "signatures," which were almost always accompanied by positive comments.

Kalas

Lingerie Football Home Opener

Eagles vs. Chargers

Bulls 94, Sixers 88

Then he forgot all about it.

Until last week, when he checked in and saw that more than 17,000 were on board. As of last night, the number had surpassed 18,000.

"It really did blow my mind that so many people are adamant about having a statue of Harry Kalas," said Jose, a 20-year-old junior at Community College of Philadelphia majoring in graphic design.

One of those people is Lawrence Nowlan, an acclaimed sculptor and former Philadelphian, who is so excited about the idea that he contacted Jose and is already working on a model of the statue.

Nowlan grew up in Philly and attended Archbishop Carroll High. Like Jose, he is a huge Phillies fan and feels Harry deserves to be immortalized.

Granted, the Phillies have already put a billboard in left-centerfield and have Harry the K's restaurant inside the Bank.

Apparently, 18,000-plus people want more.

Nowlan, who now lives in Vermont, said the statue would serve two purposes.

The first would be to immortalize Harry, who will always hold a special place in the hearts of Phillies fans. The second would be to change the national perception of Philadelphia fans.

"As you well know, Philadelphia fans always take a hit," Nowlan, 44, said. If we can do this, we'll forever be able to turn around and say, 'Have you ever gotten off your butts and done anything for your team?'

"It would be great."

To view the petition go to www.facebook.com/

group.php? gid=71492908978.

- Tom Mahon

Send e-mail to highandinside@phillynews.com

Wedding reliefs

2009-11-02T11:06:00.000-08:00

I recently completed this relief for a client who did it for her daughter and Son-in-Law. It was a big hit!

The successful person makes a habit of doing what the
failing person doesn't like to do.
::: Thomas Edison :::

Emeril at the Vintner's Hall of Fame

2009-10-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

My Brother-in-Law was watching Emeril Green recently, and he was doing a show from Greystone in Napa Valley! A scene was filmed in the Vinters Hall of Fame so he grabbed the D90 to document it.

This years Induction Dinner will be held on March 13, see you there!

Discipline in art is a fundamental struggle to understand
oneself, as much as to understand what one is drawing.
::: Henry Moore :::

Oakland Raiders - Hall of Famer Fred Biletnikoff

2009-10-06T08:44:00.001-07:00

This bas relief is heading out to Oakland to be presented to one of the minority owners of the Oakland Raiders by a old friend who will be watching the Eagles v. Raiders in the President's box next Sunday.

Biletnikoff was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988 and was voted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1991. The Fred Biletnikoff Award, awarded annually to the best wide receiver in college football since 1994, was named in his honor. In 1999, Biletnikoff was ranked number 94 on The Sporting News' list of the "100 Greatest Football Players".

Always one of my favorites!

"Imagination is more important than knowledge."
Albert Einstein

2x Pulitzer Prize Winner David Gaub McCullough

2009-09-30T11:02:00.000-07:00

Mr. David McCullough stopped by the studio yesterday while on a research trip for his new book which includes some history on American Sculptors. He was thrilled to have the opportunity to ask many questions and study a contemporary studio which is not at all different from the studio's of the sculptors he is writing about (outside of the cd's, iphone and computer). It was quite an honor to have such an incredible talent in the studio and he enjoy himself so much he is planning a second trip back to pick up the piece he commissioned and perhaps get his hands into the clay a bit!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Mccullough

"To me history ought to be a source of pleasure. It isn't just part of our civic responsibility. To me it's an enlargement of the experience of being alive, just the way literature or art or music is."— David McCullough

Clip from Saint Gaudens Film

2009-09-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

Today I received an email from the creator of the film “Augustus Saint-Gaudens: Master of American Sculpture” regarding the latest showing. A quote from the note: "The latest was a screening on the WNET the PBS station in New York City. They also put a clip on their website (see link: http://www.thirteen.org/sundayarts/the-sherman-monument-and-saint-gauden/352 ). You're quote is still the best in the whole film and continues to get a wonderful response from the crowd."

The film is over an hour long and PBS chose this clip to advertise it.........funny.

Enjoy the clip

"Practice what you know and it will help you understand what you don't know"
Van Gogh

LJN + Rachael Ray

2009-09-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

I was recently invited to a private dinner at the Juniper Hill Inn who was hosting Rachael Ray. It was a wonderful evening complete with a bas Relief presentation.

It's not enough to have lived. We should be determined
to live for something.
::: Leo Buscaglia :::

Childrens portraits

2009-09-15T08:16:00.001-07:00

Under: People you may know...

2009-07-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

911 Dedication

2009-06-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

The collaborators; Myself, Miranda Shackleton (Miranda Shackleton Pottery) and Jack Wilson (of Dartmouth)

Dartmouth College project

2009-06-15T08:14:00.000-07:00

This summer I collaborated with Jack Wilson (of Dartmouth College) and Miranda Shackleton (Famed potter) to create a tribute plaque for those in the Dartmouth College FAmily who perished in the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It was a very rewarding experience in many ways, including collaborating with two such generous artists and of course playing a part in such a tribute.

The dedication of this plaque will be held at Dartmouth College this Friday, June 19 at 3pm. The plaque has been installed between The Hanover Inn and the Hood Museum.

• An artist chooses his subjects.. that is the way he praises.
Plato

Bas Relief in progress

2009-06-05T12:32:00.000-07:00

Busy time here in and out of the studio with the spring/summer upon us in New England. Several of the pieces I am working on are private commissions so I cannot post photos of them but here is a shot of a relief I have been working on with some nice natural light falling on it.

Every beauty which is seen here by persons of perception resembles more than anything else that celestial source from which we all are come.
Michelangelo

Volk's Lincoln mask

2009-04-28T11:55:00.001-07:00

In 1881, sculptor Leonard Volk explained how he made the first Lincoln mask. He met Lincoln in 1858 during Lincoln's campaign for the U.S. Senate, and invited him to sit for a bust. Lincoln agreed, but it took Volk's insistance two years later before Lincoln came to his studio. By this time it was the spring of 1860, shortly before Lincoln received the Republican nomination for president.

Volk said, "My studio was in the fifth story, and there were no elevators in those days, and I soon learned to distinguish his steps on the stairs, and am sure he frequently came up two, if not three, steps at a stride." Volk took measurements of his head and shoulders and made a plaster cast of his face to reduce the number of sittings.

Of the plaster casting process, Volk said, "It was about an hour before the mold was ready to be removed, and being all in one piece, with both ears perfectly taken, it clung pretty hard, as the cheek-bones were higher than the jaws at the lobe of the ear. He bent his head low and took hold of the mold, and gradually worked it off without breaking or injury; it hurt a little, as a few hairs of the tender temples pulled out with the plaster and made his eyes water." Lincoln said he found the process "anything but agreeable."

Volk said that during the sittings, "he would talk almost unceasingly, telling some of the funniest and most laughable of stories, but he talked little of politics or religion during those sittings. He said: 'I am bored nearly every time I sit down to a public dining-table by some one pitching into me, on politics.'"

Volk left a priceless legacy for future sculptors, as attested by Avard Fairbanks, who said, "Virtually every sculptor and artist uses the Volk mask for Lincoln ... it is the most reliable document of the Lincoln face, and far more valuable than photographs, for it is the actual form."

The Lincoln bicentennial (1809-2009) is being celebrated this year and for a short time I will be producing reenforced plaster casts of this Leonard Volk Lincoln mask for for $150.00 plus shipping.

If you are interested please email: ljnsculpture@aol.com

Successful trip out west

2009-03-20T10:46:00.001-07:00

The Annual Induction Dinner was held at Greystone last weekend and as always it was a wonderful affair with interesting people and delicious food.

Here is a shot with Chef Michael Chiarello of Napa Style fame and Chiarello Family Vineyards.

"Uncle Pete" heading back for another plate of hor'doeuvres

For those of you....

2009-03-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

who had trouble deciphering the stone...

Art is never finished, only abandoned.
Leonardo da Vinci

Not quite monumental....

2009-02-20T11:27:00.002-08:00

I was recently asked to create the artwork for the NH Dot Snow Plow Rally Official Belt Buckle. I guess this is a tradition which has been going on for a very long time and each year the create a new belt buckle for the event. This artwork is 2" x 3" and computerized text will be added to it. These guys earn their money up here!

A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream
together is reality.
::: John Lennon :::

My "first" Stone Sculpture

2009-02-16T06:31:00.000-08:00

This can be considered my first completed stone sculpture. I recently created this piece as a homage to nursing mothers. What is interesting is that while I have been working on the piece the visual of what it is becomes incredibly clear to me though when I have showed it to people for the first time they do not immediately "see" it.....can you?

“What art offers is space - a certain breathing room for the spirit.”

John Updike

Bas Relief Portrait

2009-02-05T13:23:00.000-08:00

“I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.”
Leonardo da Vinci

In honor of.....

2009-01-19T12:32:00.000-08:00

In honor of tomorrows Inauguration I wanted to post these "Official" White House shots of my trip to the Artists reception in early December at the White House. There was an official White House photographer who took a shot of every artist and his date (in my case my youngest sister) and recently I received the photo taken along with a photo of the ornament, the outgoing President and his wife and a pile of paper swag.

In the studio things are hopping with several projects underway and a couple in the works. My experiments with stonework are coming along nicely and I will be posting photos of them soon.

Best regards, LJN

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.
::: Walt Disney :::

New items at LJN Sculpture

2009-01-06T08:42:00.000-08:00

Here are two examples of hand created, hand carved slate plaques. I will now be offering an array of sculptural work in stone including these custom plaques which are made to order. Quotes, signs, sun dials, architectural lettering on buildings etc. All of it is laid out by hand and carved with mallet and chisel. keep your eyes out for a new page on the LJNSCULPTURE.COM website for more details!

Stone work

2008-12-08T10:59:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to play with stone and recently I have been able to act on that urge. With little or no expectations (a lie) I started in on a piece of marble the other day. At the moment I am just getting the feel for the uses of the different chisels I had lying around and enjoying the meditative atmosphere wearing a hat, goggles, ear plugs, gloves and a scarf provides.....

The cyclone derives its powers from a calm center. So does a person. ~Norman Vincent Peale

The Party (part II)

2008-12-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

   The Blue Room Tree
   The Dessert Table

   Jackie O
   Santa was also in attendance

The Party (part 1)

2008-12-04T09:41:00.001-08:00

The ornament on the White House (Blue Room) tree

The White House in White Chocolate

With the short notice we were unable to plan the trip with the whole family so my beautiful sister Danielle drove down from Philly and attended the gala with me.

entering the White House
Just before entering.....

The White House Christmas

2008-12-04T05:51:00.000-08:00

Here are some shots of the actual Christmas Ornament. The theme was : regional / red-white-and blue.

Photos of the event to come.

If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins. ~Benjamin Franklin

Off to the White House

2008-11-30T19:53:00.000-08:00

I am off to the White House tomorrow for the Artists reception. Politics aside it is quite an honor and I am excited to attend. I will be posting shots from the event as soon as I return.

"Good communication is as stimulating as black coffee, and just as hard to sleep after."
-Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Yet to be titled

2008-11-19T07:33:00.001-08:00

Here is a piece I have been toying with on and off. Today I am intrigued by it....

"Good communication is as stimulating as black coffee, and just as hard to sleep after."
-Anne Morrow Lindbergh

TJMN

2008-11-12T13:01:00.001-08:00

The White House Christmas tree

2008-11-11T09:52:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back I was asked by representatives of the state of Vermont to create a Christmas Ornament for the White House Christmas tree. They ask that I not disclose much more info than that before the First Lady releases a press release in early December.
It is a great honor and certainly a nice way to kick off the Christmas season, Ho Ho Ho!

"A man's true delight is to do the things he was made for."
~ Marcus Aurelius

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!!!

2008-10-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

I am in disbelief.......

Reign delay?

2008-10-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

A run and 9 outs away? Go Phils!!

1 WIN AWAY.......

2008-10-27T08:53:00.002-07:00

Oh Lawdy, 1 more win.....The last parade was in 1983......Oh Boy........a couple of runs and 27 outs! Go Phils!
This is a picture of Pitcher Joe Blanton crushing a pitch for a homer last night!

Go Phillies!!

2008-10-23T11:06:00.001-07:00

The studio has been buzzing lately with a number of projects both large and small including a new edition to the gang. As many of you know I am a native of Philadelphia and a die-hard Philly fan so I must take a moment to say "Let's go PHILLIES"!! 1 down 3 to go! Now I'm getting thirsty need to go get some wooder, thanks.

Bas Relief Portraits

2008-09-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

I have been spending most of my time recently working on a series of reliefs that I have been commissioned to do. Here is a shot of one of those reliefs in progress it is the world reknown Vintners Ernest and Julio Gallo.

"The moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decisions, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now. "-Goethe

Google Alert!

2008-09-02T04:20:00.000-07:00

I was sent over a nice alert by google yesterday:

click here!

"Devotion is like the candle which Michael Angelo used to take in his pasteboard cap, so as not to throw his shadow upon the work in which he was engaged."

- [Devotion] PHILLIPS BROOKS
American bishop, scholar and pulpit orator
(1835 - 1893)

LJN Sculpture Medal Designs

2008-08-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race”Calvin Coolidge

The Great Sandy Koufax

2008-08-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

I have recently been commissioned to create a bas relief portrait of the great Sandy Koufax which will be presented to the baseball great to honor his 75th birthday.

Sanford "Sandy" Koufax, one of the greatest pitchers in baseball, was referred to as the "man with the golden arm." He established one record after another as he went through an 11-year career as a pitcher with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Koufax was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Evelyn and Jack Braun. His mother divorced his father when he was young and remarried Irving Koufax, a lawyer who played an important role in raising Sandy and his stepsister, Edith. He took the children to the Yiddish theater in New York City and he was very supportive of Sandy's participation in baseball and basketball in Brooklyn's Lafayette High School.

Koufax, who loved to play basketball, was constantly at the Jewish Community Center shooting baskets or playing with a team. When he was 15, he pitched for a team in the Baseball Ice Cream League, where baseball scouts watched him with great interest. After completing high school in 1952, he went on a basketball scholarship to the University of Cincinnati. However, the baseball scouts were still after him and finally he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1954.

The first three years were hectic for Koufax, who had trouble controlling his fast ball. At times, he would walk two or three batters before getting the next man out.

Koufax convinced Dodger management to let him pitch more often. Under the guidance of pitching coach Joe Becker and Norm Sherry, a Jewish catcher, he learned to throw more curve balls and change-ups. The 1961 season brought him 18 wins; he struck out 269 batters for a league record. But the following year, 1962, was almost a disaster for Koufax. He developed a blood clot in his arm that almost cost him his index finger, but he managed to pull through and, in 1963, won two games against the Yankees in the World Series.

When a 1965 World Series game fell on Yom Kippur, Koufax requested that he not pitch on this holy day. Many criticized Koufax and maintained that his personal beliefs outweighed his professional beliefs.

Koufax, who received the Cy Young Award, was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972. During his baseball career he established many records, retiring at the end of the season in 1966 when he was plagued by arthritis. He moved to the west coast and turned to broadcasting baseball games and to selling real estate.

Bas Relief Portrait

2008-07-23T07:47:00.001-07:00

Ireland/Foundry

2008-07-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

I was informed recently that I have been chosen as a finalist for another piece in Ireland. Our first experience in the fall going to Ireland to unveil two pieces was a great success and a trip I won't soon forget. To be selected as a finalist for an even larger monument is very exciting. I have created a wax model of my design which will be cast in bronze and then delivered to the Emerald Isle.
Keep your fingers crossed, even though I have been selected as a finalist I know the competition will be up to snuff and Irish to boot! I suspect the final decision will be announced sometime in September.
Meanwhile I stopped by Campbell Plaster & Iron (a bronze foundry go figure) to drop off some work and pick up some work and my buddy the owner Glenn Campbell and his first mate Keith MacIntyre were getting ready to pour some bronze.......

I have been no more than a medium, as it were.
::: Henri Matisse :::

The Upper Valley Homeschoolers

2008-07-02T05:51:00.000-07:00

I had a nice visit at the studio the other day by the Upper Valley HomeSchoolers . They were a wonderful group of about 18 kids who were full of energy and lots of intriguing questions. They were very well behaved and that is a plus in a studio with plenty of fragile items lying around! Their manners were impeccable and I they gave me lots of suggestions for new pieces!" What sculpture is to a block of marble, education is to a human soul" Joseph Addison

Summer in the studio

2008-06-25T11:21:00.000-07:00

Its been a busy time in the studio in the past few months. I am working on several commissions simultaneously including a medallion, a swimmer, Vintner's and a model for a piece that may be done in Ireland. ( I just found out I am a finalist for the project)

Here is a shot taken in the studio where I am cleaning up the model for the 4" bronze medallions for the IUCN.

"Whenever it is possible, a boy should choose some occupation which he should do even if he did not need the money"

William Lyon Phelps

Kinnick Inspection

2008-06-03T10:16:00.000-07:00

Here is a "Field Inspector" from LJN Sculpture going over the Nile Kinnick relief. These representatives check for things like casting quality, durability and so on.

Enjoy, LJN

A tribute to Robert Mondavi

2008-05-22T11:48:00.001-07:00

Robert Mondavi passed away last friday but left quite a legacy. It was my great honor to be chosen to create his portrait for the Vintner's Hall of Fame last year. Below are some shots from the process and one of Robert receiving the honor.

A Party Favor

2008-05-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

Bas Relief Portrait

2008-05-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece that I finished today. I picked the bronze up from the foundry and mounted it on a frame that was created by the framer ( Ross Houghton) who does all of the frames for the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site in Cornish, NH. The piece has been created for a local school to pay tribute to a beloved teacher.

In the studio

2008-04-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of shots taken recently. The first is a shot of the Harold Jefferson Coolidge Medal that I am creating for the IUCN. I will create two 12" masters which will be reduced and made, a die will be cut and 4" bronze medallians will be produced.

This is a shot of the beginning of the 2008 inductees into the Vintner's Hall.

We interrupt this program.....

2008-04-23T07:41:00.000-07:00

Harold Jefferson Coolidge Medal

2008-04-17T04:54:00.000-07:00

I have just received the final approval for the medallion design for the International Union for the conservation of Nature (IUCN). When completed it will be a 4" bronze medal which will be struck at a mind and not cast in a foundry. The process is similar: Create a master, reduce the master and cut a die and than strike the coin. It is an exciting project and I am eager to get underway. The only distraction is that believe it or not its supposed to be in the 70's today!

The creative process is a cocktail of instinct, skill, culture
and a highly creative feverishness. It is not like a drug; it
is a particular state when everything happens very quickly,
a mixture of consciousness and unconsciousness, of fear
and pleasure; it’s a little like making love, the physical
act of love.
::: Francis Bacon :::

Regards, LJN

Robert and Margret Mondavi

2008-04-08T04:44:00.000-07:00

Here is a shot I just acquired from the 2007 Vintner's Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
Robert Mondavi
Inducted 2007

With a commitment to excellence and a visionary understanding of wine's place at the American table, Robert Mondavi has dedicated his life to showing how wine adds to life's enjoyment. His motto, "Making good wine is a skill, fine wine an art," has inspired winemakers in California and around the world.

A pioneer of fine winemaking in Napa Valley, Mondavi has been equally committed to wine's place, along with cooking, as one of the arts. His wide-ranging support for the arts, as well as community and charitable works, is legendary, and his conferences and educational programs have added immeasurably to the appreciation of wine in America.

Throughout his life and career, Robert Mondavi has set the highest of goals, and has consistently sought to lead the wine industry to ever-greater achievements. Robert's creed: "Go forward, this is only the beginning."

The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is
nothing without work.
::: Emile Zola :::

Regards, LJN

Family

2008-03-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

When I paint I am ageless, I just have the pleasure or the
difficulty of painting.
::: Francis Bacon :::

CIA "Vintner's Hall of Fame" induction dinner 2008

2008-03-11T04:55:00.000-07:00

We had another exciting visit to the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone this past weekend for the second annual induction dinner for the Vintner's Hall of fame. My bas relief portraits of last years class were unveiled and 8 new members were inducted. They included: the late Ernest and Julio Gallo; Paul Draper, CEO of Ridge Vineyards; Miljenko "Mike" Grgich, whose Chardonnay was tops in the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting; and wine expert Darrell Corti, whose Sacramento store has helped put countless wines and gourmet products on Americans' radars. A separate category of "pioneers," who have been dead 10 years or longer, will include John Daniel Jr. of Inglenook; Napa Valley vintner Louis M. Martini; and Livermore vintner Carl Wente.

Here is a shot of the Maynard Amerine relief display.

While on a tour of the facilities we were offered a few truffles........

The sculptor and 2008 inductee Miljenko "Mike" Grgich

Sneaking in a little golf with my brother at Eagle Vines Golf Club in Napa.

"Sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible
things before breakfast."
::: Lewis Carroll :::

Regards, LJN

Preparing for dinner....

2008-03-04T12:32:00.000-08:00

I will be heading out to Saint Helena, Ca later this week for the second annual induction dinner of the Vintner's Hall of Fame. Last years dinner was incredible. This year they will be inducting 8 more vintner's:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/01/18/WIO4UGJ38.DTL
I look forward to creating a new set of portraits almost as much as the dinner! (Escaping this weather won't bother me much either)
Regards,
LJN

Drawing

2008-02-22T06:43:00.001-08:00

"Drawing is the art of being able to leave an accurate record
of the experience of what one isn't, of what one doesn't know.
A great drawer is either confirming beautifully what is
commonplace or probing authoritatively the unknown."
::: Brett Whiteley :::

"Hundreds of people can talk for one who can think, but thousands can think for one can see. To see clearly is poetry, prophecy, and religion-all in one." - John Ruskin

©LJN

©LJN

©LJN

Warm regards, LJN

"The Artist's dream"

2008-02-13T05:27:00.000-08:00

I received this note this morning....

This is the artist's dream:
To receive the inspiration to create,
To share that creation with others,
And to be totally supported in the process.

I asked him to explain further. "It all begins with inspiration," he said, "an inspiration that calls us to create. Once the inspiration is received, then we can bring that vision into the world as a song, painting, book, invention, new business - or any other tangible form.

"After the creation is born, it needs to be shared with others. No one creates in a vacuum. It is only when the vision is successfully communicated to its intended audience that it truly comes alive.

"Finally, the artist needs to be supported for what he does. If he has made a positive connection with his audience, the support will come - financially and emotionally. And while it may not always be there immediately, it will ultimately arrive. This is where the artist needs to trust and be patient."

Regards, LJN

Foundry visit

2008-01-31T11:46:00.000-08:00

I took a trip over to the foundry to check out the progress on several pieces they are doing for me. Looking good. Two of the pieces are being prepped for a patina, the other photos is of the "chasing" station.

You cannot find your soul with your mind, you must use your heart.
::: Gary Zukav :::

Regards, LJN

Augustus Saint-Gaudens

2008-01-28T12:57:00.001-08:00

I had the opportunity to take some plaster casts of two of Saint-Gaudens coin designs. Ironically one of them is the 1907 coin which Mary Cunningham posed for. Unbelievably beautiful work by the master.

It is my dream to create an art which is filled with balance,
purity and calmness, freed from a subject matter that is
disconcerting or too attention-seeking. In my paintings, I wish
to create a spiritual remedy, similar to a comfortable armchair
which provides rest from physical expectation for the
spiritually working, the businessman as well as the artist.
::: Henri Matisse :::

Regards, LJN

January 2008

2008-01-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

"Everyone discusses my art and pretends to understand,
as if it were necessary to understand, when it is simply
necessary to love."
::: Claude Monet :::

Happy New Year

2008-01-02T12:07:00.001-08:00

O, once in each man's life, at least, good luck knocks at his door; And wit to seize the flitting guest need never hunger more. But while the loitering idler waits good luck beside his fire, The bold heart storms at fortune's gates, And conquers its desire.
- Lewis J. Bates

Winter in New England

2007-12-27T17:56:00.000-08:00

With the stain glass windows in the studio I usually cannot tell what the weather is outside. In the winter time that can lead to a nice surprise when I am heading home.

More Sculpture Studio shots

2007-12-12T06:12:00.000-08:00

I have been encourage to take more photos in the studio......this was taken this morning.
Regards,
LJN

Bas Relief completed

2007-12-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

Here is a shot of the finished plaster sculpture before framing.

Bas relief sculpture...in progress

2007-12-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

"In-Progress" sculpture

2007-11-30T07:15:00.000-08:00

I noticed that someone voted for "in-progress" photos well here you are. This is an early shot of a sketch I am putting together for a full-size sculpture of Augustus Saint -Gaudens. Like an Author who would not post an unfinished manuscript for public consumption for fear of early and unfair criticism, it is sometimes difficult to find "in-progress" photos that are satisfying to the sculptor.

I am not an adventurer by choice but by fate.
::: Vincent van Gogh :::

Warm regards, LJN

John Hammond - Master Ferrier

2007-11-27T04:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T06:46:00.001-08:00

It has been an incredible year here at LJN sculpture with many things to be grateful for including the fun I have posting on the blog and reading the comments. I can see there are visitors from around the globe which is pretty amazing. Keep the comments and questions coming.
Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving and you can bet this Turkey will be back to work soon.
Warm regards,
LJN

Catching up

2007-11-19T18:21:00.000-08:00

Since returning home from Ireland I have been catching up on projects including finishing up the CIA reliefs. Here is a shot I took after removing a bas relief portrait(plaster cast) from a plaster waste mold. Look closely one is a positive image, one negative.
Regards,
LJN

More from Dublin

2007-11-14T06:38:00.001-08:00

Mary Cunningham - Carrick, Ireland

2007-11-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

A nice article about the dedication in Carrick and several nice photographs are on the "Carrick On-Line" website:

click here!

Check it out, LJN

More from Dublin

2007-11-08T13:01:00.001-08:00

This is Enda Cunningham owner of Cathach Rare Books who along with Patrick "Paddy" Duffy spearheaded the Saint-Gaudens tribute.

Mr. Paddy Duffy- Managing Director of The Right Word Company Limited, along with Enda treated our party like royalty.

Here is a shot of myself, The Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr. Paddy Bourke and the American Ambassador to Ireland, Thomas Foley.

Dr. Henry Duffy - World reknown expert on Saint-Gaudens and major influence on this project, joins us in this photo.

The real star of the show!

Photo Credits: Evan Brook Welch

Dublin dedication

2007-11-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

The Dublin dedication was fantastic. About 50 people attended and it was hosted by The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr. Paddy Bourke and the American Ambassador to Ireland, Thomas Foley. The reception that followed at the Hugh Lane Gallery was a very nice event. Speaking in a room full of Monets and other masterpieces is quite something. More pics to follow, LJN

Press release in Europe

2007-10-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

The dedications were fantastic. Photos to follow. LJN

Augustus Saint-Gaudens to be honoured on O'Connell Street
Archiseek / Ireland / News / 2007 / October 25

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Paddy Bourke will unveil a commemorative plaque to Augustus Saint-Gaudens on Thursday 25th October 2007 at 11.00 a.m. in the presence of His Excellency Thomas C. Foley, United States Ambassador to Ireland. The plaque, by renowned US sculptor Lawrence Nowlan, is placed on the footpath on the central median of O�Connell Street opposite the Parnell Monument. Saint-Gaudens was a master sculptor who created some of America�s most famous monuments. He was the sculptor for the Parnell Monument in Dublin.

Augustus Saint-Gaudens was born in Dublin on the 1st March 1848 to Bernard Saint-Gaudens, a French shoemaker and Mary McGuinness, his Irish wife. Six months later, the family immigrated to New York City where Augustus grew up. In 1876 he received his first major commission; a monument to Civil War Admiral David Glasgow Farragut. Unveiled in New York's Madison Square in 1881, the monument was a tremendous success and was seen as a departure from previous American sculpture. Saint-Gaudens� fame grew and the popularity of his work established him as the leading American sculptor of the latter half of the nineteenth century.

He produced enduring and distinctive public sculpture such as the Adams Memorial, the Peter Cooper Monument, and the John A. Logan Monument. Perhaps his greatest achievement was the Shaw Memorial unveiled on Boston Common in 1897. Described as Saint-Gaudens� �symphony in bronze� this masterpiece took fourteen years to complete.

Saint-Gaudens died in Cornish, New Hampshire on August 3, 1907. His wife survived him for nineteen years, and with their son, Homer, established the Saint-Gaudens Memorial, an organization dedicated to preserve the his former residence as an historic site.

New website

2007-10-18T08:51:00.001-07:00

Still have a couple tweeks but be sure to visit.
Cut and paste address into your browser:
http://web.mac.com/ljnowlan/LJN_Sculpture/HOME.html

Autumn in New England

2007-10-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

There are many great benefits of living in New England but this time of year there is the obvious. Here are some shots I took today around the neighborhood. It does not matter if you are a sculptor, an accountant, a painter or a baker the scenery is incredibly inspirational.
Enjoy, LJN

Cool post, check it out

2007-10-15T08:30:00.001-07:00

http://www.cstv.com/roadtripcentral/goingbig/2007/10/11/

Clean'in House...studio

2007-10-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

After finishing up the Kinnick relief the creative side of the mind has taken a few days off and ive been cleaning the studio which has been in a state of disarray since 3 years ago when I started in on the project for the University of Iowa. I have created a few new "sketches" in the last few days. Funny, they are about the size of two fingers on the Kinnick relief...guess you have to start some where. More info on the dedications in Dublin and Carrick( Ireland) coming soon.
Here is another shot of the Kinnick relief.
Regards,
LJN

Few more Kinnick Shots

2007-10-03T16:45:00.001-07:00

A Big Hit!

2007-10-02T05:59:00.000-07:00

The relief is a big hit and the standing Kinnick remains a big hit! What a weekend! I-Club kick-off breakfast at 6am, received a warm welcome from Coach Ferentz followed by a lecture at the art school on the process involved in creating the Kinnick relief. After the lecture we attended the "Garden Club" kick-off luncheon which was hysterical. The dedication followed by the Homecoming Parade! Taigaiting befeore and after the game.....the game.....a great time was had by all.
The Sculptor, Coach and Super; a "big" fan; the piece.

Off to Iowa

2007-09-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

We are off to Iowa for the dedication weekend and I will be giving a talk on Friday morning at the large auditorium ABW240 at 10 am all are welcome. I will be talking about the process of creating the Kinnick relief from sketch to finished bronze.
See you there,
LJN

Iowa Gazette "Memories in bronze" 9-24-07

2007-09-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.gazetteonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070924/NEWS/70923024/1002/NEWS

Memories in bronze
By Diane Heldt
The Gazette
diane.heldt@gazettecommunications.com

IOWA CITY - Sculptor Larry Nowlan's latest creation honoring University of Iowa football legend Nile Kinnick had to be hauled into Iowa City on a flatbed truck.

``This piece is giant,'' Nowlan, a Vermont artist, said. ``This is incredibly complex compared to the first Kinnick sculpture. Absolutely it's the most complicated work I've done, both technically and creatively.''

The bronze sculpture he was speaking about, measuring 20 feet long, 10 feet high and 4 feet deep, shows Kinnick scoring a famous winning touchdown against Notre Dame in 1939.

It was installed several weeks ago inside the south grandstand concourse at Kinnick Stadium but has been kept under wraps. Tentative plans have called for it to be unveiled this weekend during UI Homecoming festivities.

UI folks who have seen the finished piece described it as stunning and breathtaking, said Rick Klatt, associate athletics director for external affairs.

``It's very, very well done,'' Klatt said.

Nowlan, 42, also made a 12-foot statue of Heisman Trophy winner Kinnick with a book in his right arm and jersey slung over his left shoulder. That work was installed at the stadium's south plaza last fall.

But this second piece was a whole different beast, Nowlan said.

It depicts 11 figures -- 10 players and a referee -- from the 1939 game against top-ranked Notre Dame, which Iowa won, 7-6.

``I've been looking at that picture since November 2004 almost on a daily basis,'' Nowlan said.

The sheer size and complexity of the sculpture meant that after Nowlan created the piece in clay, it had to be cast in bronze in about 60 different pieces that were then assembled. A steel structure was needed to support the back of the massive piece, he said.

Nowlan, a Philadelphia native and big sports fan, said he enjoyed bringing Kinnick's legend to life with the sculpture, and that the two UI projects were a natural fit for him. He added he would love to work with the UI again some day.

His other commissions include one from TV Land in 2000 to do a sculpture of Jackie Gleason, installed in Manhattan at a Port Authority bus terminal.

To prepare for the Kinnick pieces, Nowlan read about Kinnick and watched DVDs and an ESPN SportsCentury segment about the man.

Nowlan said he will be on hand for the unveiling.

``It's got to be one of the most beautiful entrances of any college stadium,'' he said. ``There's not a larger, more comprehensive work of art in any stadium in the
country. This is a historic event.''

Philadelphia Premier of the ASG Film!

2007-09-18T05:28:00.000-07:00

I have a bit of a cameo in the film.....Below is a note from director Paul Sanderson......

The screening at the Philadelphia Museum (see attached) is one week after the event at the Metropolitan Museum. If you know anyone in the Philadelphia area, please pass this email on. FYI – The Philadelphia Museum has just opened the Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building which looks to be spectacular. The museum is also the home of Saint-Gaudens’ Diana which once graced the top of Stanford White’s original Madison Square Garden. So check them both out while you are there. Hope to see you at one of the screenings.

All the best, Paul

Paul Sanderson
Our Town Films, Inc.
432 West 45th Street
New York, New York 10036