[Lynn O. Doughty]

Aside from a few Kachina carvers there were no other woodcarvers displaying. Boy! I sure wish I could have arranged a blood transfusion so I could qualify. It was pouring down rain and there still was a HUGE crowd. All the big galleries brought in their main artists which gave me a chance to talk to some of the best sculptors working now. While everyone else was outside I was inside picking brains. Really picked up a load of useful info on techniques and marketing. Also, while my wife stood lookout, I managed to snap off a few reference photos of pieces I really liked. My flash went off once by accident and I thought this caper had come to and end but the owner didn't notice so I continued to pilfer ideas.

While following my wife through a gazillion gift shops, I came across a lot of the "Spit & Whittle" figures done by the carver whose name escapes me at the moment. I reflected back to the discussion about copyrights we were having a couple weeks ago. This carver must have completely lost control of his copyright as the figures I saw were copied and recopied so many times most of the original detail had completely been lost. I seriously doubt if he receives any benefit from his work. A shame. Coming home and checking my emails Nancy send me a note that she had come across a copy of the saddle project I just posted on my blog for sale on EBAY! Boy, that carver works fast. I don't know who the carver is but I did send him an email through EBAY asking where he got the pattern for such a terrific looking and well thought out project! Maybe if he gets a good price I'll let him be my agent!

Anyway, it's good to be back home and in the shop staring at that big unfinished commission that I can't seem to ever get done. And, believe it or not, I think Boomer even missed me! Or it could have been that extra scoop of grain I gave him. Horses......!!

[Coffeeman]

Welcome back and glad you had a fantastic trip. Bill

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I would have liked to see the phony on ebay! Bet it was from china, they are bad about stealing ideas and reproducing them! Guess that comes from not having any original thoughts?

[carver6]

Lynn,
Think maybe I detect a little happiness at seeing Boomer on your end also!!! Kinda neat when you can tell when an animal is happy to see you.

Glad you enjoyed your trip. Have always wanted to see Sante Fe. Heard a lot of neat things about it.

See ya!!!
Garon