Carving Gargoyles, Grotesques, And Other Creatures Of Myth: History, Lore, And 12 Artistic Patterns (Fox Chapel Publishing)

Carving Gargoyles, Grotesques, And Other Creatures Of Myth: History, Lore, And 12 Artistic Patterns (Fox Chapel Publishing)

Peering down from rooftops with their haunting, even humorous expressions, gargoyles have endured for centuries as architectural necessities directing rainwater away from age-old buildings, or as others speculate, warding off evil to protect the cathedrals, churches and homes where they were perched. Today, these mysterious beasts are a popular carving subject for anyone looking to add primitive ornamentation in and around their homes.If you've ever wanted to carve a gargoyle, grotesque, chimera or guardian, or just understand their differences, this unique step-by-step tutorial from renowned woodcarver, Shawn Cipa, will guide you from start to finish. In addition to being led through the entire carving and finishing process, you'll also discover fascinating legends and lore about each of these spirited creatures, where surviving gargoyles can be found around the world, and the facts and conjecture surrounding their purpose and meaning. After you master the skills to complete the Traditional Water-Spouting Gargoyle and Class Grotesque projects, you'll find 10 additional original patterns for rowdy characters, like the Crouching Imp and the Screaming Keystone Grotesque. You'll even find patterns for functional projects, like a gargoyle cane-topper, and a green man door knocker.From the Back CoverCraft a Legendary Architectural Element for Your Home or GardenGargoyles have endured for centuries as an architectural element designed to divert rainwater or-as legend has it-to ward off evil and protect the cathedrals and buildings upon which they were perched.Today, these legendary creatures are as popular as ever-especially as a form of artistic expression. If you've ever wanted to try your hand at carving a gargoyle-or a grotesque, chimera, or guardian-this unique step-by-step tutorial from renowned woodcarver Shawn Cipa will guide you from start to finish.Inside you'll also discover:The history, lore, symbolism, and differences between each iconTwo step-by-step projectsTen original carving patterns"Artistic Approach" sidebarsTechniques for achieving an authentic aged-stone lookTips for securing and mounting your workGallery of gargoyles from around the worldWith the inspiration offered by the many engaging photographs of gargoyles in this book, and by following Shawn Cipa's extremely lucid instructions, it is possible to create one's own mesmerizing monster.-Janetta Rebold Benton, Ph.D.,Author of Holy Terrors: Gargoyles on Medieval BuildingsThis is a must-have book for all gargoyle aficionados, not just for wood carvers.-Walter S. Arnold,Stone Carver and President of the Stonecarvers GuildAbout the AuthorShawn Cipa is the author of Carving Gargoyles, Grotesques, and Other Creatures of Myth, Carving Fantasy & Legend Figures in Wood, Carving the Nativity, and Carving Folk Art Figures. Cipa was featured in Carving Wood Spirits and Green Men by Lora S. Irish. He earned national recognition for his carving in 2000 by taking first place in the Santa Carving Competition sponsored by Woodcraft Corporation. His work has been featured in Woodcarving Illustrated.