Sculptor Harold Clayton's current studio is as
big as all outdoors.
It often has to be, considering the size and
nature of his work.
This larger than life Buffalo is bigger than
anything else I've done.
In relation to like a laying down cow, it's
over twice the mass.
Clayton's carved a whole herd of cattle
hereabouts, but for more than 60 days he's been chiseling
away here in Rockwall, leaving the buffalo
chips fall where they may.
Clayton's career creations include much more
than big bovines, but he has done a lot of animals.
People like animals in general, whether we're
in Texas or in Fairbanks, Alaska.
This limestone sculpture will stand guard at
the gates to Buffalo Creek Country Club
Estates, a development of Big Buck's bungalows
and golf course.
It's increasingly difficult these days to find
a home where the Buffalo still roam,
but Clayton's sculpture at least will sit
around here until the cows come home.
At least it had better.
It'll weigh about six tons, or half the weight
of the slab Clayton began cutting.
This art form isn't recommended for posy painters.
If you don't like getting dirty in dust, I
wouldn't recommend it, but it's good clean dust.
It's healthy.
As are Clayton's commissions for this kind of work.
Jack Helsel, Channel 5 News, Rockwall.
For more information visit www.channel5.org