Artist Statement
Since learning how to carve stone at the age of 5, I have been a Zuni carver, taught by my mother Faye Quandelacy, and grandmother, Ellen Quandelacy.
My work has concentrated on creating miniature carvings and sculptures from natural stone, drawing much of my style from my Native American background (Zuni (enrolled)/Laguna/Choctaw). Many pieces feature and celebrate the female form and the role of women in Zuni society, often emphasizing the traditional activities and dress of Pueblo women. I also create a range of animals, from locally based creatures like golden eagles, bears, and beavers to animals inspired by my travels, like jaguars, parrots, sea turtles, and tree frogs. The goal of my work is to celebrate the beauty of the natural stones through modern style based in Zuni tradition.
As a direct carver, I celebrate the natural form of my materials, using the shapes and textures of stones or shells to draw out the shape of the figurine or animal. I draw inspiration from many different artists, ranging from the classical masters who shaped our understanding of the human form like DaVinci and Michaelangelo; to French artists like Degas and Rodin; and of course Native sculptors like Allen Houser and my mother, Faye Quandelacy. I also take inspiration of the styles and colors of sculptures from Mesoamerican and African cultures, and most recently the netsuke I encountered on a trip to Japan.
I primarily use power tools (Foredom drills and grinding machines) which work well for smaller carvings and stones of varying degrees of hardness. Many stones used for traditional Zuni carvings, like Kingman turquoise, sandstone, and jet, were locally sourced. I use these and other materials from different locations that allow me to produce work with a wide range of styles and colors: bright red spiny oyster shells, vibrant Lapis lazuli blue, and deep green malachite. When working with larger stones, like alabaster, soapstone, and white marble, I enjoy using the more traditional tools like chisels. All pieces are unique in their creation, featuring the natural ebbs and flows of the stone.
