Elisabeth phoned and Alan Mantle was glad to have us visit. The time was chosen and off we went.
We were met by a wiry man with shoulder length hair, intelligent eyes and a welcoming smile.
To reach his studio we climbed up knee-high circular stairs! Fortunately there was a railing because I basically pulled myself from step to step, and, against the odds, I made it!
Alan only uses wood that has fallen. One of his sculptures had been formed from wood that was at least 3,000 years old. His talent was as much his understanding of and respect for the nature of each piece of wood as it was his aesthetic eye. His work was beautiful—simple, yet intricate at the same time.
And here is where I must confess: I had left my camera at home.
Fortunately, we were welcome to return at any time to wander his garden with camera in hand.
The garden figures are cruder, more unfinished, more whimsical, more weathered, than the studio sculptures, yet they also show the artist’s touch.
It was a different experience, but just as much fun to return for this second visit.
I think that a visit to this open gallery in the Fall, brings out the stark beauty of the pieces.
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