Clay Portrait Sculptor

Figure A--Lee Ann Herne works very hard to capture not only the likeness of an individual in clay, but also the spirit. It takes a special eye. She begins by creating an armature to support the masses of clay that will rest on it. Later the paper and wire of the armature will be removed. Soon after the clay is in place, Herne's experienced hands begin to find the human form hidden within. This piece has a masculine identity.

Figure B--Herne can complete pieces within a matter of hours. By comparison, this sculpture of a 20-year-old girl took nearly a year, with several revisions. The hair, as it was originally, didn't seem to capture the spirit of this intelligent, free-spirited young woman. Eventually, the hair was swept outward, which plays well with the downcast, serious eyes. The tension of the hair and eyes give the piece its life.