Sabal, 2025

The centerpiece for Sabal's creation is a beautiful cabochon I found @Raincharmer Beads in Phoenix on my January 2025 Gallery Tour/roadtrip to Baja. I originally assumed it was a polished agate, but when I started working on the piece, I noticed a tag on the back of the cabochon saying it was actually polished palm root.
The Gemsbuck skull comes from 12 Vultures in Minneapolis, and is unique in that it was cut out to lie flat on the oak mounting plaque. The oak plaque was not in great condition and would have required refinishing. I had the idea to cover it with leather instead, which I think adds great character to the piece overall.
The wild turkey feathers were attached to the beaded chain via a new technique I was shown on my visit to Prairie Edge Gallery. Mike welcomed me into his workshop and showed me how to soak and carve the spines of the feathers to create a hook with which to attach the feathers. I have struggled with how to attach feathers to my pieces, so was very grateful for the instructions. I love how I learn new things every time I visit Prairie Edge.
I named this guy after the Sabal Palm. Native Americans called the sabal palm (Sabal palmetto) the "Tree of Life". They used it for food, shelter, and other items for centuries. The term "palm tree" comes from the Latin word palma, which originally meant "palm of the hand". The tree was named for the shape of its leaves, which resemble the fingers of a hand.
Thanks to Kyra Nygard for the fun photo session in El Pescadero for these newest pieces added to my website.