Smoothie Decoys

     

        

 

   

 

Preferences of a Smoothie

Smoothies are made for the collector who appreciates the heritage of the work ing decoy but also enjoys the style and life-like positions of the contemporary bird. The Smoothie decoys are patterned from the live bird. These decoys compare in size to a live bird, but often are carved larger than life. The woods used to carve these birds are Northern Bass, Northern Juniper or Tropical Light Mahogany.

These decoys begin by being carved from one or more stock pieces of the same wood. After the original rough cut to the shape of the bird, the block is hollowed from the inside leaving enough wood for finished detail carving and then rejoined. This process helps to alleviate any stress from the wood preventing possible cracks. Animations are added and shaped into the carving to give each bird its particular character.

Detail painting is just one aspect that separates these birds from the Gunner. As the name titles them "Smoothies," more emphasis is placed on enhancing the painting of each bird with fine brush strokes, colors, and shadows making it appear as if each stroke was carved into the individual feather of the bird.

The birds seen above have been in floating competitions around the country. Each decoy is individually and intricately weighted specifically for the purpose of competition. The bottom of the decoy is authenticated by a wood-burned signature along with the name of the species.

906 Cardens Creek Dr.
Durham, NC 27712
919-479-6030
bens.gallery@yahoo.com

 

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Copyright 2007 Ben Heinemann