This one-of-a-kind piece features a fluid, hand-carved wood sculpture shaped to resemble a bass found prominently in Oregon waterways. The carving is meticulously finished to a high gloss, highlighting the rich, undulating grain of the wood. The sculpture rests upon a rare slab of Oregon Thunderstorm Agate (also known as a Thunderegg slice), a highly prized geological formation found in the rhyolite lava flows of Central Oregon. According to Native American legend, these stones were "eggs" hurled by fighting Thunder Spirits. This specific specimen showcases a "thunderstorm" pattern with dark, swirling matrix lines and translucent agate pockets reminiscent of a stormy sky. The entire assembly is mounted on a base of Myrtle wood, a rare and beautiful hardwood native only to the coastal regions of Oregon and Northern California, known for its incredible variety of colors and grain patterns.

Artist Statement: Before I started carving or doing anything art related I was at a rather low point in my life, and was taking a break from my stressful life and go camping up the Siletz River inland 30 miles off the Oregon coast. I found this family that rented out this little spot on their land to campers for $20. A night for campers who did not want to stay in the state park. Anyway it was a cool spot, and I was the only one there. There was a kayak the owner had tied to the bank, and he said I was more than welcome to take it out if I wanted. I had never been on a kayak, and that spot in the river had a 8 foot deep fishing hole, that I would rather not discover what the bottom looked like. Anyway I found out kayaking is actually really easy, and totally forgot being down, as I headed up stream. I noticed all kinds of wooden treasures on the bank, and for whatever dingaling reason I started loading them into my little Kayak. One of the pieces I grabbed was literally 90% underwater, and what I could see of it as I pulled it out of the sandy bank was fishy. That day helped break my depression, and got me carving my new found treasures. The carving was like the ultimate stress reducer. Truthfully art can really help people heal. And that little fishy is the piece you see before you today. I hope it finds a new home, and helps bring a bit of peace to someone in need

Artist: John David

Category: Sculpture

Year: 2023

Dimensions: Call for size

Signed: Artist signed, dated, + makers mark

Inventory ID: #3138