While the nearest most of us have been to a safari is by way of a David Attenborough program, we can acknowledge that Nature boasts an abundance of spectacular animals, both wild and domesticated. The grace and majesty in repose, the muscular movement, the stealth while hunting; we marvel at how much like us they appear as they rear their young, create their habitat, and protect their families.
We're not too far removed from our predecessors when it comes to surrounding ourselves with reminders and remnants of the wild. We fill our homes and gardens with plants, trees, and flowers; perhaps we have a family dog or cat. We crave sunlight and water and, come evening, rest. In the world outside, our children learn to survive by way of instruction and repetition; we work together in our communities to improve the lot of us all.
Perhaps because we still feel a connection to nature - especially when it seems to disappear, replaced by even more apartment blocks and creeping suburban sprawl, and when frightening reports of pollution, overcrowding, and climate change cause us to ponder the fate of humanity - it's important to pause and be reminded of the dazzling gifts Nature has bestowed upon us.
Lifelike, realistic depictions of Nature's creatures have been created by master artists over the centuries. Works in wood, stone, steel, and plaster fill museums and galleries and the homes of people who appreciate the extraordinary reminder of those with whom we share the planet.
A striking, realistic take on the animals we admire are the resin cast, copper plated sculptures found at the Pickle Barrel Trading Post. Deer, wolves, and bears come alive with natural poses; eagles and owls seem to soar. The horses are graceful, handsome creatures, captured mid-motion, and the expressive detail in particular animals (a mother and child elephant comes to mind; her gentle nudge the sign of a protective, though impatient parent) bring these statues and busts to reality.
A vision of wild animals, wings high, hooves in motion, are clear eyed reminders of the spectacular world in which we live. It's pleasing and even comforting to add a few of these burnished, copper plated statues to the places we call home.
When in Arizona, visit us the Pickle Barrel Trading Post in Globe (approximately 90 minutes east of Phoenix), or call us at (928) 425-9282. Check out our online shop at https://old.picklebarreltradingpost.com/
with over 1,000 exceptional items for sale. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Photography by Jim Lindstrom