“Suspended Motion” is a freestanding sculpture created in cement clay with mineral patinas over a galvanized steel armature. The piece measures 24″x24″x36″ and is weatherproof for indoor or outdoor display. The work depicts a frog reaching out to a dragonfly, capturing a moment of anticipation and connection. While it may be displayed on the floor, it is best presented on a low pedestal which is a minimum of 24″ square for optimal viewing.

In my mind, I move slowly through the world. I stop to smell the flowers. When I see a fallen leaf, I pick it up – turning it over to study all the details that make it beautiful. I find joy in the smallest things, and observing the frogs in my backyard has become one of those quiet pleasures. Now there are tadpoles swimming and growing, and watching them fills me with wonder. When I create a sculpture, I enter that same state of attention—studying the nuance of shape, form, and texture, all the elements that make each subject unique. This deep exploration feeds my soul and sustains my creative energy.

I’m a deep observer of the natural world, and that sense of attention shapes all of my work. Annie Dillard’s writings resonated with me for that reason. In the piece I created for this show, I wanted to suspend a moment in time and make it impossible to miss. Inspired by the green frogs in the pond near my home, I spent time simply watching them – their stillness, their sudden leaps, and their gentle presence. As a child, I spent hours playing outside, delighted by what I discovered in nature. I hope this piece evokes that sense of playfulness and simple wonder in those who see it.

Annie Dillard’s way of seeing the world resonates easily with me. Her writing was a welcome reminder to slow down and find inspiration in my own backyard, where I’m fortunate to be surrounded by a world teeming with life. Frogs, turtles, birds, dragonflies, and so many others pass through—each providing endless joy and inspiration for my work.

This work has given me a heightened awareness and deeper appreciation for all the creatures that pass through my wooded backyard. I’m inspired to continue this observation through a series of sculptures directly based on this theme.

Throughout this process, I was reminded how much I love exploring different materials and discovering their capabilities. I enjoy pushing myself to learn and grow with each piece I create. It’s deeply satisfying to transform something ordinary or common into something graceful and extraordinary.