the stones as found, their unique shape and size, inspires the working of each
"skystone"
the stones find me
The wilderness has always be a great source of inspiration for artist! Authenticity is critical to making art. Each Skystone is forever linked to a singular place, its inhabits, and the minerals that prevail. These beautiful places are discovered by navigating abandoned mine and dirt public roads,
When the roads end or became impassable, the walking journey begins! The expeditions are rarely planned, guided by whim and curiosity, challenged by the physical and metaphysical realms, the unknown is the only known. All of the stones, rocks, minerals, and crystals begin their journey to studio and eventually a-one-of-a-kind treasure!
sculptor
Carl Hans Arneson is a naturalist, explorer, sculptor, and photographer. This adventurous spirit leads him to places previously unseen or abandoned decades ago.
"Skystones" is a deep dive into the physical and metaphysical world of the outback Sonoran Desert, All surrounded in the ecology, geology, and cultural relics of this most extreme and beautiful of places. This work is inspired by over 40 years of similar adventures.
From his studio in Arizona he sculpts these beautiful found stones and minerals, They are carved with care, some are tagged with the old norse letter "C" (<). Immortalizing each piece as a work of art, a compliment to the process that nature began eons ago.
how they are made
Packed on the back of my Husqvarna motorcycle or occasionally in a Subaru, the collective stones are brought to studio. There they are washed and brushed free of soil. Some are soaked in vinegar or a weak acid to remove calcium and iron stains. Using simple grinding wheel machinery, the carving and shaping process begins.The shape of each "Skystone" stems from the stone as found. This shape is maintained all the way through polishing, Hand polishing is an integral part of the process. The old norse letter for the "C" in Carl's first name and of his grandfather is carved into the stone like the runestones in Norway.The letter also is a symbol that means, torch, vision, revelation, creativity, and technical ability. When finished, each "Skystone" begins a new journey as sculpture.