Here is the model as it came into focus. I had to compose in 3-d after coming to the realization that the bench would be based on very large sweeping curves. I wanted the curves to have a dynamic relationship to the tree and root system.

The bench featured a number of seating areas that related to the actual use of the property. A chaise like section was coupled with a seat that faced the sunset.

The next step had me devising a way to mock up the curves in my studio. The chalk circle represents the trunk of the tree.

It had been my hope that t he roots of the tree would spill out from under the bench blurring the line between bench and tree.

Nice try but the reality was that the bench needed to be bigger. MUCH bigger.

I went back to the drawing board and increased the diameter of the circle bench from 12′ to 18′! Now that the scale is right we were able to focus on some of the details in the piece.

Here is the model which reflects those changes. If you click on the picture below you can rotate the circle bench. (does not work on the iPhone/iPad)

Here are a few more shots that should complete the picture of this bench. Now for the next challenge…actually building this piece!

The first piece was on page 32 and it featured my White Cast Bench

My Glass Hall Table was included on page 82.

Hamptons Cottages & Gardens captured a great moment at the Longhouse Reserves Open Bowls exhibit this year. Our boys love the Longhouse but the opening reception was going on a bit long for their attention spans. I was so happy to have a planter just large enough to hold them! They settled in quite well and we all enjoyed the rest of the evening!

The website has just launched
www.karmakidsart.org

The facebook page is up and now all that is missing is the ability to donate by PayPal!
facebook

I had my first opportunity to run the class a few weeks ago. It was a blast! The project was making and decorating a wooden wall sculpture to hold keys. I cut and pre drilled plywood that would act as the canvass for the project. The next step was to select a variety of scrap from my vast collection and cut them into interesting shapes. Recycling at its best!

I am not usually this organized but I wanted things to go smoothly.

I brought an assortment of hammers and asked the children to choose one when it was their turn to hammer in the dowels.

Now for the fun part. I held the dowels while each kid took a turn. They were an accurate bunch. Not even one errant blow!

The next part of the project involved decorating the plywood boards by gluing the scrap pieces on.

I know that I will be buying two of these at the auction on August 28! Thanks to all of the Karma Kids for making this so much fun!

All photos except for the first courtesy of Marcia Ciriello Photography

Look for the latest issue of Hamptons Magazine pictured below and make sure to visit Michael Hennessy Home when in NYC. mhhome.net

Below is a snippet from the article which can be found here. Outdoor Bench #3 is paired with a painting by Eric Ernst.