Hey Slug Mummy, as a Torontonian now living in BC viewer who had field trips to the Skydome (revealing my age lol) I would love to see you create something from your time playing here! P.s. hugs to your daughter RIP Charlie
Some advice I've heard, and given, is that "It doesn't matter what 'most people would pay for your original art' because only one person is going to buy it. You don't need to convince a mass of consumers, you need that piece of art to resonate with ONE person and that's it, and they'll be willing to pay you for what it's really worth. You're not competing with Walmart, you're making ART."
When you explained your price at the end I was so relieved to hear that you went up with it from the baseline. So many artists of all kinds undervalue and underprice their work and it's always so disheartening to see. I'm glad you're here to tell us to value our work! Also, totally agree on the slug switch. The sculpture is stunning!
I was in the art business for 14 years (we owned an art gallery) and I'd say your price is perfectly worth it. It's obvious how much time/effort/skill went into it......absolutely stunningly beautiful. New sub here.
that is awesome. Thanks for sharing! BTW- I now have a few pieces that I am looking at getting into art galleries... Any insights on who I should reach out to or know of anybody that may be interested? Please email me bmsculptures@gmail.com Thanks!
Hey Blake! Really enjoying this new format where some of the voice overs are project related, and some of the voice overs are lessons learned/general advice. Definitely wanna see this trend continue. And as always, your work is simply fascinating. I won’t sit here and try to describe how amazing it is. We’re all super proud of you!
When an artist corrects his work, two things can happen. 1, he makes a bad work, 2, he makes a better work. In your case, it was number 2, you changed for the better. It certainly shows the skill you have and the love and effort you put into each of your works. A big greeting, ARTIST!
I really appreciate your take on the financial side of a career in art. I do a ton of textile stuff (knit/crochet/etc) for fun, but have never turned it into a business because pretty much no one wants to pay for 10 hours of labor to knit a hat when you can just buy a machine-knit one. On the other hand, a lot of people I know with sewing businesses (custom dance/skating/etc costumes) say to charge at least minimum wage for your when starting out, and increase from there.
I've been told I could sell these little fairy light trees I've made for family but... I couldn't see it making enough to be worth it. Materials aren't expensive but it take at least a week in terms of hours to make them. (So about a month in total since I have to do other life things). Plus I have severe chronic back pain. There's just no way I can see someone even paying minimum waged hours for them. Minimum wage where I live is $15 24 hours a day for a full week is 168 hours. 168 hours for 15per hour is 2520. There's just no way someone is paying 2 grand for a light up wire tree that's less than a foot tall...
When I have problems casting objects that keep getting bubbles trapped in the extremities, I find it helps to fill those bits first using a pipette or something to make sure they're full first before filling the rest of the mold.
I shake my head whenever you start a project, instead of just using wood and resin, you must incorporate the most incredible mind-boggling pattern! I try to carve basic wood into a good sculpture, but YOU HAVE TO go light years beyond our other mere mortal carvers/sculptors!!! It is an absolute joy to watch your videos and work. Interesting fact, those large snails are actually welcome in South African gardens near the coast since they feed on those pesky snails that ruin the plants. Love them.
Art is in the eye of the beholder… I liked the glitter slug but not with the shell… it didn’t go together… the second slug, when it came out I wrinkled my nose at it… but then when you finished him and put the shell on it, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I actually liked it…. By itself, no,,, together they were made for each other, literally… you created a beautiful and unique piece of art that will make someone very happy…
I love elephant's, very very much, I'd love to see you carve one but then I'd want it 😂. So, to me it doesn't matter what you carve, cause I'll watch every video in awe and no matter what it is, will always be blown away.
There's a real cool dude in Alaska that has been on Joe Rogan a couple times. He owns a prehistoric boneyard. I would bet my pinky toe that, if you introduced your channel and plan, he would send you mammoth tusk for it. Or a sack of mixed peaces of ancient ivory. Not kidding. Please investigate. So much potential.
@@sonnyjs15 I have listened to him multiple times on the podcast. So fascinating. However Most of the tusks are very fragile and not in good enough condition to carve something solid out of.... I DO want to use them for antlers or other animals tusks though. That could work!
@@BMSculptures no, like two fragment/epoxy sculpted tusks. Like the slug mold or something so you wouldn't have the cut/sand them. Wooden elephant (or mammoth) carving with shards in epoxy.
Layers are layers, no matter the material. The forged versions may need a little more thought due to the stresses and the expectations of the final product tho... metal tends to require actual use vs. the aesthetic of woods. But yes, very similar techniques. 👍👍👍👍
First off, slug mummy is probably the best term I've ever heard lmao. I love the design and how much of your heart and soul goes into each part. It's easy to finish something, say its good enough, then move on. Its a lot harder to restart after so much work and i commend you for that. End product looks amazing! Though i will admit that the pattern matchup didn't seem to match up to great. But it shows just how hard that stuff really is. Its not.just a simple "Slap this here" situation. And again the overall does look great! Amazing work and beautiful product as always!
Dear Artist, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your remarkable artwork. Your talent not only inspires me as an artist but also motivates me to enhance my woodworking skills. As someone who works with various mediums, I find immense joy in watching your videos. Each time I view them, I am greeted with a smile and a renewed sense of inspiration. It is truly a wonderful gift that artists possess-the ability to inspire others. Please continue your incredible work, as it is genuinely appreciated. Warm regards from the Netherlands!💜🐌🐚💯
I totally enjoyed seeing you working at a snails pace, to earn more than just a fast buck. The effort you put in for all of us to see is nothing less than inspiring. Thank you!
Snail mummy. That was wonderful. I learned a lot. I have just started trying to sell my work, I have been making things for presents and people have said I should sell them, but didn't know how to figure my pricing. Thank you.
Try pricing it at double what you expect someone to pay. You can always lower the price if it does not sell and you get surprised every now and then. I only sell things in the 1 - 3 hundred dollar range though. Not sure how it "wood" work with higher pricing.
I loved both snails! I especially loved the sparkly one. Although it looked a bit tacky I LOOOOVED the contrast between the dark wood and near white resin. Would love to see you make some kind of high contrast sculpture. That'd be gorgeous!! (BTW this isn't to say that the second snail is worse. It's by all means better!! Looks a lot cooler and fits the vibe. I just adored the high contrast and sparkles xD)
@BMSculptures glitter gets used in sooooo many things these days so it's over used and thus makes it tacky. Like it gets used just to draw in attention even if something is low quality, hence the cheap aspect
I'd argue that the $55 band saw replacement is part of regular upkeep/maintenance of your tools, not a cost specific to the job that gets rolled into the price.
It depends. If a tool breaks specifically because of one job, then I'd charge it to that job. But yea if it's general wear and tear, and the thing just got worn, then yea that's separate from that specific piece
This is going to sound harsh, but I think an artist of your calibre can take it. With a pattern like that, it just doesn’t work unless it is damn near perfect. The $9500 wow factor would be there if it weren’t for the misalignments in the pattern. Some parts of the pattern are 1/4” off across the joint! Anyways, it’s a great sculpture and you know it, but I think earnest critique (not hate) is good for any artist.
snails aren’t actually insects, they’re gastropods (a class of mollusks). that being said, it’d be super cool to see blake do an insect. some kind of beetle or caterpillar would be awesome!
Incredible work, and i love the dedication to quality of creation. you tossed that whole slug mummy in the trash and started again just to make it up to your own standard. much respect for that! and also THANK YOU SO MUCH for talking about pricing art!!!! I found that very helpful!!
Never thought about that! Sea horse would be amazing. The sea weed be clear green apoxy and the sea horse out of a piece of burl wood like the fish in the mouth of the bear piece!
Accounting student here: you can't add the full cost of the band saw blade to the cost of the project since that blade will still be good for a bunch more projects. Only a portion of the blade's cost can be added to this project. (We call this depreciation.) You want to apportion the cost based on how much usage you get out of it.
That is so beautiful! I love snails and thus one is magnificent. Definitely worth the asking price and, if i had that kind of money, it would be sitting in my house right now. I absolutely love it!
I used to be a working artist. The single most important conversation I tended to have with other artists, looking to live off their work, was how and why they needed to raise their prices.
As soon as you said the slug would be made out of epoxy, I envisaged the transparent kind immediately which you later went for. So thank you for fulfilling my mental imagery of the art piece
Slug Mummy! I had no issues with the glitter critter but after seeing the final piece; I think you made a great decision! Worth the money; absolutely! Keep it up and thanks!
i think the glitter cheapened the sculpture visually and distracted from your amazing craftsmanship and at the price-point you're offering (which is completely valid) I think without glitter opens it to more potential buyers. I'm glad you rethought it but i understand why some people liked it the other way 🐌💖
Slug, mummy. I think the replica of Charlie looks great. Thank you for sharing brother. One love! I like this one better than the first one as well. I think your end price is perfect for this snail.
Slug mummy - perfect name foe a band. OK, now for my 2 cents worth. 1st attempt for the slug body - I thought "wabi sabi". Then I saw your second one. You were correct in taking that decision. The value of art is determined by the market. Personally I would not pay that amount for the snail, BUT I hope someone does. As an amateur chopping board maker, I love what the ones you made on this video.
Slug Mummy. Honestly, I like both sculptures. The first one with the glitter would be interesting, just because it draws your eye in the light with all the sparkles. I do see the appeal of the clear one as well. There is a nice peak contrast between the patterned shell and the slightly tinted epoxy snail (RIP Charlie) that stands out more with that combo. Also, I'd definitely buy that "I ❤ Slug Mummies" t-shirt.
Slug mummies optical tentacle, new band name. Seriously great work, the recolour was definitely the right choice. Even bigger props to you for discussing actual pricing, truly revealing.
I absolutely loved the sculpture.I thought the patterns of different woods created for the shell were remarkably beautiful.I would though,love to see one with the basic straight line pattern of the real snail shell.
Yes, I agree, I thought exactly the same as you but I didn't want to say it out loud so I'm glad you think the same, you made a good choice because it turned out really nice.
Your story about the snail really stuck with me. I had to pause the video and go spend 3 days 3D sculpting an African Snail. I've printed it and plan to paint it. If it comes out like I think, I'd love to send it to your daughter.
You made the right creative call going with the clear resin. However, that I think a light wood (for the snail body) may have been the best choice. That would offer a natural contrast to the dark brown wood of the shell.and complimented the details on the shell (light wood colour).
I love glitter so I liked the first slug. But beautiful work and I think it's absolutely worth what you're asking! I just saw an article about a rotting banana duct taped to the wall of an art gallery in NY that was possibly going to be sold for 1-1.5 million dollars. It was being praised. So honestly, art is in the eye and pocketbook of the beholder. Personally I think the banana installation is ridiculous but the snail is true craftsmanship.
From the start, with that huge pile of timber, the impression I had in my head was a snail some 4 feet tall, so I was a little disappointed when it ended up only about 4 times life size. But all said, it looks wonderful, but sadly a bit small.
WOW, your African snail is STUNNING!! "Slug Mummy"...😁😜 The love of your craft shows in every piece and what an incredible talent you are!! I definitely like it better without the glitter, it seemed to take away from the overall "class" of it. Loving your t-shirt too! You deserve every penny for your amazing work. Bravo my friend...Big hugs from Texas!!😍🤩
5:32 Lol we had teachers (woodkworking specialized school/ebanisterie) showing us how to rorrectly handle band saw blade and I was skared as h... to even hold it the right way lol 😅
"Slug mummy" are my new favorite words! Lol I'd love to watch you sculpt a horse skull! I think it would look really cool with some flower or something like that. Love your videos!
Your skill is stellar. Beautiful work. Some of the best designs there are, are from quilt patterns. It might be worth looking into for inspiration. I made a living at making quilts in the past. If you look around there is so much design out there. Even crochet has some unique designs that would work with wood.
My brother used to carve bowling balls into things and do metal and wood sculpture, people took notice and one of his customers had an art exhibit and show of his work, he began selling lots of it by word of mouth and doing really well, he never wanted to go that far that it became a job, he just enjoyed it. He was at a show one time and for some reason the IRS came in and fined him for not reporting his sales and not having a tax ID. He quit altogether and hasn't done anything since which is sad. I was at his house last year and his whole shop is just dormant, he never even goes into it now. If you step on a snail in your socks they will never be the same, that stuff does not come out. Your snail is awesome.
Thanks for another great video. I especially appreciated the pricing information as I’m currently trying to decide what my work is worth for a client that basically said ‘name your price’. I’m currently doing fine woodworking but have a strong desire to try carving so thanks again for the organic inspirations. Cheers slug mummy! 🤐
Great work. Art is worth whatever the buyer/appreciator thinks it is worth. FWIW I really like the smoky resin color you used in the bear sculpture. I'm thinking of mixing something similar to fill some voids in my own projects. Can't wait for the next video.
I would never pay that much, but I think someone out there would. Also, with the amount of hours you put into making this piece, the cost of materials, incredible craftsmanship, i think the price is justified
Surprised you changed the snail, but after seeing the true final result, I'm glad you did. The second attempt at the snail looked so much better with the shell. Brilliant work. First video of yours I've watched, and I'm subbed. Good job
I really like the first slug body, the waviness, glitter and translucency really made it look "gooey" I'd keep it maybe for another project like if you want to give it another shell.
![1870s Circular Sock Knitting Machine [Restoration]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/rAFlLEoFilM/mqdefault.jpg)
Checkout Flexispot's huge Black Friday Sale going on now! bit.ly/3UJtN20 and let me know what you want to see me carve next... BESIDES a Peacock!!!
Amazing result 🙌🙌🙌 loved the final snail much better. Well done 👍
Nope. Not giving up on the peacock.
Hey Slug Mummy, as a Torontonian now living in BC viewer who had field trips to the Skydome (revealing my age lol) I would love to see you create something from your time playing here!
P.s. hugs to your daughter RIP Charlie
frog
giraffe
i love the idea of using a desk in wood working.
really shows off the versatility of their product.
Everyone knows every good sculpture starts with stepping on your daughters favorite snail
90% of the time it works everytime!
Inspiration can come from anywhere. 😂
such a wholesome channel, the project is a "daddy got in trouble, time to appease" gig, lol.
love it ❣
Yep, tragedy yields some of the greatest inspiration for art!
Straight slug mummy
Some advice I've heard, and given, is that "It doesn't matter what 'most people would pay for your original art' because only one person is going to buy it. You don't need to convince a mass of consumers, you need that piece of art to resonate with ONE person and that's it, and they'll be willing to pay you for what it's really worth. You're not competing with Walmart, you're making ART."
Underrated?
EXAAAACTLY!
I needed to see this. Thanks for sharing.
Well it really depends if you want to make a full time living you need to have a steady customer base
Goddamn ain’t that the truth😂
I liked the Glitterslug! I could see one really dark blue version where the glitter is like stars. Galaxyslug!
yes!
First version of body was better…
I was hoping he'd mount the glitter slug head like a deer mount
@@robertrenato Glitter is awesome!
I know, I loved it too!!! 😢 ☹️
When you explained your price at the end I was so relieved to hear that you went up with it from the baseline. So many artists of all kinds undervalue and underprice their work and it's always so disheartening to see. I'm glad you're here to tell us to value our work! Also, totally agree on the slug switch. The sculpture is stunning!
Thank you! Glad you liked it
9500 for a woodwork piece that isn't perfectly seamless is sorta a stretch, though @BMSculptures
I was in the art business for 14 years (we owned an art gallery) and I'd say your price is perfectly worth it. It's obvious how much time/effort/skill went into it......absolutely stunningly beautiful. New sub here.
that is awesome. Thanks for sharing! BTW- I now have a few pieces that I am looking at getting into art galleries... Any insights on who I should reach out to or know of anybody that may be interested? Please email me bmsculptures@gmail.com Thanks!
Slug Mummy
Was?
What happened?
@@vincenttrigg4521 Divorced. I ended up working in bookstores for 18 yrs.
@PossumLover1111 oh jeez... I'm so sorry to hear that. Is life treating you well at least?
The “I ❤ Slug Mummies” tshirt was a great touch! 😂
Glad you liked it!
@@BMSculpturesI fully expect that to be in your web shop.
Where do we get a slug mummy shirt??
You need to do a red panda - the colours lend themselves to some great choices of wood.
Great idea! Plus if you find the right crazy rich Asian $$$$$$
Trying to make peace with the immortal snail, I see
May the snail gods be in my favor
I was looking for this comment
i thought the idea was to make peace with the "girl" (should have asked her what "she" thinks about the glitter)
@@BMSculpturesyou should’ve gifted it to her
It's gorgeous! Charlie would be honored... Does your daughter know what happened to him? 🐌
I've seen so many slug mummies in my life but your slug mummy was by far the best one I've ever seen.
I enjoyed the fact that this video is basically an entertaining sculpt video whilst also having a how to tutorial sprinkled in for beginners
I love the before, because the glitter gave the effect of wet. Love your work
Thank you! 😊. Wish I could have saved it
Yea I liked it also
Much better
Slug mummy.
The final sculpture is unique, delightful, and gorgeous. The shell is incredible and the little gastropod himself is a cool likeness.
aw hell they are called gastropods!? I should have researched this before
@@BMSculptures😂
how is your commentar from 12 h and the video is only since 40 min out? (slug mummy)
@@benguidomeister4800 The video gets released to my members first.
amazing work. i am personally not as enamored by the aesthetic of snails, but to each their own.
Owning my own adorable African Snails, I must say that looks absolutely stunning, and I am sure Charlie would love this. :)
That is awesome. Hope you watch where you step!
Hey Blake! Really enjoying this new format where some of the voice overs are project related, and some of the voice overs are lessons learned/general advice. Definitely wanna see this trend continue. And as always, your work is simply fascinating. I won’t sit here and try to describe how amazing it is. We’re all super proud of you!
Glad you like them!
When an artist corrects his work, two things can happen. 1, he makes a bad work, 2, he makes a better work. In your case, it was number 2, you changed for the better. It certainly shows the skill you have and the love and effort you put into each of your works. A big greeting, ARTIST!
When you look at the finished product, there's probably only one in the world, and to me, that makes it priceless nice job.
Thank you!
I really appreciate your take on the financial side of a career in art. I do a ton of textile stuff (knit/crochet/etc) for fun, but have never turned it into a business because pretty much no one wants to pay for 10 hours of labor to knit a hat when you can just buy a machine-knit one. On the other hand, a lot of people I know with sewing businesses (custom dance/skating/etc costumes) say to charge at least minimum wage for your when starting out, and increase from there.
yeah I can see that. It is always tough to turn it into a business and it needs to be different than the store bought pieces somehow.
I've been told I could sell these little fairy light trees I've made for family but... I couldn't see it making enough to be worth it.
Materials aren't expensive but it take at least a week in terms of hours to make them. (So about a month in total since I have to do other life things). Plus I have severe chronic back pain.
There's just no way I can see someone even paying minimum waged hours for them.
Minimum wage where I live is $15
24 hours a day for a full week is 168 hours. 168 hours for 15per hour is 2520.
There's just no way someone is paying 2 grand for a light up wire tree that's less than a foot tall...
When I have problems casting objects that keep getting bubbles trapped in the extremities, I find it helps to fill those bits first using a pipette or something to make sure they're full first before filling the rest of the mold.
oh that is a fantastic idea. Thanks for the protip!
25:29 The main reason I would say no to your price tag is the misalignment of your pattern.
Achatina achatina, commonly known as the giant African snail,
Unfortunately that’s the number one thing I caught as well. It is beautiful but the misalignment really throws off the eye
Aww, I fully hoped you would give this to your daughter, she would treasure it for life. This was an amazing sculpture!
When Blake uploads, men are happy
hahaha
Scratch that… men and women 😉
Not just men
I shake my head whenever you start a project, instead of just using wood and resin, you must incorporate the most incredible mind-boggling pattern! I try to carve basic wood into a good sculpture, but YOU HAVE TO go light years beyond our other mere mortal carvers/sculptors!!! It is an absolute joy to watch your videos and work.
Interesting fact, those large snails are actually welcome in South African gardens near the coast since they feed on those pesky snails that ruin the plants. Love them.
Well Slug Mummy and Optic Tentacle sounds interesting together XD
new fav words!
The saddest part about this whole video… I was expecting you to give this to your daughter. 🐌
I suspect she'd rather have a doll
$9500 would pay for another trip to Hawaii...
Art is in the eye of the beholder… I liked the glitter slug but not with the shell… it didn’t go together… the second slug, when it came out I wrinkled my nose at it… but then when you finished him and put the shell on it, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I actually liked it…. By itself, no,,, together they were made for each other, literally… you created a beautiful and unique piece of art that will make someone very happy…
Perhaps the Sphinx was the original slug mummy. Eye stalks lost to sandstorms...
Another stunning piece!👍
hahaa Thanks James!
I'm glad I'm not the only one who kept thinking of the Sphinx while seeing the slug mummy! 😂
are you saying maybe blake could carve a sphinx.....?
that would be pretty awesome!
I love elephant's, very very much, I'd love to see you carve one but then I'd want it 😂. So, to me it doesn't matter what you carve, cause I'll watch every video in awe and no matter what it is, will always be blown away.
I have been wanting to carve an elephant for a very long time. Hopefully soon!
There's a real cool dude in Alaska that has been on Joe Rogan a couple times. He owns a prehistoric boneyard. I would bet my pinky toe that, if you introduced your channel and plan, he would send you mammoth tusk for it. Or a sack of mixed peaces of ancient ivory. Not kidding. Please investigate. So much potential.
@@sonnyjs15 I have listened to him multiple times on the podcast. So fascinating. However Most of the tusks are very fragile and not in good enough condition to carve something solid out of.... I DO want to use them for antlers or other animals tusks though. That could work!
@@BMSculptures no, like two fragment/epoxy sculpted tusks. Like the slug mold or something so you wouldn't have the cut/sand them. Wooden elephant (or mammoth) carving with shards in epoxy.
Something thats really cool is making those fancy wood patterns is the process is super similar to making mosaic Damascus
It is very similar!
Hey 🦆🐇!
@@mulepowerforge yoo sup 🐴⚡
Layers are layers, no matter the material. The forged versions may need a little more thought due to the stresses and the expectations of the final product tho... metal tends to require actual use vs. the aesthetic of woods. But yes, very similar techniques. 👍👍👍👍
First off, slug mummy is probably the best term I've ever heard lmao.
I love the design and how much of your heart and soul goes into each part. It's easy to finish something, say its good enough, then move on. Its a lot harder to restart after so much work and i commend you for that. End product looks amazing! Though i will admit that the pattern matchup didn't seem to match up to great. But it shows just how hard that stuff really is. Its not.just a simple "Slap this here" situation. And again the overall does look great! Amazing work and beautiful product as always!
hahaha right!? Yeah I wish I got the pattern better- I should have talked about that in the voiceover more.
@@BMSculptures live and learn friend! Over all, amazing video and great product!
I think the first one would have looked great on a lighted base
I expected the shell to be the glass ،Seems like a good thing
That would be intersting
@@BMSculpturessounds like a challenge.
Dear Artist,
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your remarkable artwork. Your talent not only inspires me as an artist but also motivates me to enhance my woodworking skills.
As someone who works with various mediums, I find immense joy in watching your videos. Each time I view them, I am greeted with a smile and a renewed sense of inspiration. It is truly a wonderful gift that artists possess-the ability to inspire others.
Please continue your incredible work, as it is genuinely appreciated.
Warm regards from the Netherlands!💜🐌🐚💯
wow thank you so miuch Isabella. That is one of the best and nicest comments I have ever had. Thanks so much!
25:41 should have made that into one of those taxidermy head wall mounts
I totally enjoyed seeing you working at a snails pace, to earn more than just a fast buck. The effort you put in for all of us to see is nothing less than inspiring. Thank you!
When I first heard you were putting glitter into the epoxy, I silently screamed.
I'm so happy you are redoing it. Now, back to watching.
haha glad you agree!
Snail mummy. That was wonderful. I learned a lot. I have just started trying to sell my work, I have been making things for presents and people have said I should sell them, but didn't know how to figure my pricing. Thank you.
Glad this video could help!
Try pricing it at double what you expect someone to pay. You can always lower the price if it does not sell and you get surprised every now and then. I only sell things in the 1 - 3 hundred dollar range though. Not sure how it "wood" work with higher pricing.
@@bebophippie1781😂
Thank you
I loved both snails! I especially loved the sparkly one. Although it looked a bit tacky I LOOOOVED the contrast between the dark wood and near white resin. Would love to see you make some kind of high contrast sculpture. That'd be gorgeous!!
(BTW this isn't to say that the second snail is worse. It's by all means better!! Looks a lot cooler and fits the vibe. I just adored the high contrast and sparkles xD)
Thanks for your input... It was just not really my style and I think it looked kind of cheap for some reason. Maybe I will do high contrast one day!
@BMSculptures glitter gets used in sooooo many things these days so it's over used and thus makes it tacky. Like it gets used just to draw in attention even if something is low quality, hence the cheap aspect
I'd argue that the $55 band saw replacement is part of regular upkeep/maintenance of your tools, not a cost specific to the job that gets rolled into the price.
Yes.... You are probably right about that. My mistake while editing this vid
It depends. If a tool breaks specifically because of one job, then I'd charge it to that job. But yea if it's general wear and tear, and the thing just got worn, then yea that's separate from that specific piece
You, my friend, are a true artisan! What a beautiful piece! Just like all your other creations!!!
Thank you so much 😀
It's totally worth that price. Charlie would be so proud, lol!
i hope so
This is going to sound harsh, but I think an artist of your calibre can take it. With a pattern like that, it just doesn’t work unless it is damn near perfect. The $9500 wow factor would be there if it weren’t for the misalignments in the pattern. Some parts of the pattern are 1/4” off across the joint! Anyways, it’s a great sculpture and you know it, but I think earnest critique (not hate) is good for any artist.
Am I the only one thinking that the slug mummy, once fully wrapped, looked like a cat?
Ohh crap, Blake has discovered insects... lol... love your work and when you go off the beaten path... just waiting for that "Banana" sculpture...
hahaha banana sculpt will happen one of these days
snails aren’t actually insects, they’re gastropods (a class of mollusks). that being said, it’d be super cool to see blake do an insect. some kind of beetle or caterpillar would be awesome!
A big ass beetle would be so cool
Incredible work, and i love the dedication to quality of creation. you tossed that whole slug mummy in the trash and started again just to make it up to your own standard. much respect for that! and also THANK YOU SO MUCH for talking about pricing art!!!! I found that very helpful!!
Thanks for watching Trevor!
You make art. The effort, the skill the creativity involved is worth every penny you charge.
Great job! I like the second snail much better. The first one did not do it justice.
Glad you agree! That first one was just bad haha
Pls make a sea horse
That would be tough
@BMSculptures face the challanges .so you can learn so many things
Never thought about that! Sea horse would be amazing. The sea weed be clear green apoxy and the sea horse out of a piece of burl wood like the fish in the mouth of the bear piece!
The burl wood would give it a similar look to the real texture of a sea horse!
Slug, mummy. I think the replica of Charlie looks great. Thank you for sharing brother. One love!
Slug mummy. Love this, total genius. Please please make a fox or a puffin. You’re just amazing.
I like those ideas. I eat puffin cereal all the time so I am strangly always looking at them.
I think I follow a half dozen or so wuudworking/art channels and I got to say I don't just watch for the art!! All around fantastic!
Wow, thank you!
Accounting student here: you can't add the full cost of the band saw blade to the cost of the project since that blade will still be good for a bunch more projects. Only a portion of the blade's cost can be added to this project. (We call this depreciation.) You want to apportion the cost based on how much usage you get out of it.
Incredible craftmanship. Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it
still waiting for that peacock
I knew it! ✋
@@BMSculptures they are majestic
That is so beautiful! I love snails and thus one is magnificent. Definitely worth the asking price and, if i had that kind of money, it would be sitting in my house right now. I absolutely love it!
Thank you so much!
This has to be the best Slug Mummy job I've ever seen!! Seriously you are a legend, this is unreal, love it ❤️
Slug mummy-first time watching, thank you. Lucky little girl😊😊
Great work Blake and this is my first seeing you do sculpturing.
I used to be a working artist.
The single most important conversation I tended to have with other artists, looking to live off their work, was how and why they needed to raise their prices.
The glitter on the first slug was pretty, but it really didn’t match the intricacies of the shell. You’re amazing!
Great video! I really appreciated the training aid. Thank you for sharing
As soon as you said the slug would be made out of epoxy, I envisaged the transparent kind immediately which you later went for. So thank you for fulfilling my mental imagery of the art piece
haha you got it!
Slug Mummy! I had no issues with the glitter critter but after seeing the final piece; I think you made a great decision! Worth the money; absolutely! Keep it up and thanks!
i think the glitter cheapened the sculpture visually and distracted from your amazing craftsmanship and at the price-point you're offering (which is completely valid) I think without glitter opens it to more potential buyers. I'm glad you rethought it but i understand why some people liked it the other way 🐌💖
I totally agree!
Good choice to make it transparent with no glitter. It is a beautiful piece of Art. Well done Blake!
Thank you so much 😀
Slug, mummy. I think the replica of Charlie looks great. Thank you for sharing brother. One love! I like this one better than the first one as well. I think your end price is perfect for this snail.
Right on, Thanks slug pappy
Slug mummy - perfect name foe a band.
OK, now for my 2 cents worth.
1st attempt for the slug body - I thought "wabi sabi".
Then I saw your second one.
You were correct in taking that decision.
The value of art is determined by the market. Personally I would not pay that amount for the snail, BUT I hope someone does.
As an amateur chopping board maker, I love what the ones you made on this video.
Thank you and i completely agree with you
Slug Mummy. Honestly, I like both sculptures. The first one with the glitter would be interesting, just because it draws your eye in the light with all the sparkles. I do see the appeal of the clear one as well. There is a nice peak contrast between the patterned shell and the slightly tinted epoxy snail (RIP Charlie) that stands out more with that combo. Also, I'd definitely buy that "I ❤ Slug Mummies" t-shirt.
Slug mummies optical tentacle, new band name. Seriously great work, the recolour was definitely the right choice. Even bigger props to you for discussing actual pricing, truly revealing.
The slug was perfect!
I absolutely loved the sculpture.I thought the patterns of different woods created for the shell were remarkably beautiful.I would though,love to see one with the basic straight line pattern of the real snail shell.
I'm glad that you knew something was wrong with the bandsaw before you started using it more. Then you decided to take it apart to see what was wrong
Yes, I agree, I thought exactly the same as you but I didn't want to say it out loud so I'm glad you think the same, you made a good choice because it turned out really nice.
I have a pet snail and seeing someone make such a badass snail sculpture brought me joy. He would love this
Your story about the snail really stuck with me. I had to pause the video and go spend 3 days 3D sculpting an African Snail. I've printed it and plan to paint it. If it comes out like I think, I'd love to send it to your daughter.
oh wow! Would love to see it. Email me at bmsculptures@gmail.com Thanks!
I love how you used the straight edge clamp for the miter saw
I very much enjoyed your video and I gave it a Thumbs Up
Much apprecaited!
You made the right creative call going with the clear resin. However, that I think a light wood (for the snail body) may have been the best choice. That would offer a natural contrast to the dark brown wood of the shell.and complimented the details on the shell (light wood colour).
I agree, a fully wood sculpture would be cool! But both are beautiful.
It -is- a lovely slug mummy!
I love glitter so I liked the first slug. But beautiful work and I think it's absolutely worth what you're asking! I just saw an article about a rotting banana duct taped to the wall of an art gallery in NY that was possibly going to be sold for 1-1.5 million dollars. It was being praised. So honestly, art is in the eye and pocketbook of the beholder. Personally I think the banana installation is ridiculous but the snail is true craftsmanship.
haha yeah the banana is outrageous
From the start, with that huge pile of timber, the impression I had in my head was a snail some 4 feet tall, so I was a little disappointed when it ended up only about 4 times life size. But all said, it looks wonderful, but sadly a bit small.
Love the 'Slug Mummy'!
WOW, your African snail is STUNNING!! "Slug Mummy"...😁😜 The love of your craft shows in every piece and what an incredible talent you are!! I definitely like it better without the glitter, it seemed to take away from the overall "class" of it. Loving your t-shirt too! You deserve every penny for your amazing work. Bravo my friend...Big hugs from Texas!!😍🤩
5:32 Lol we had teachers (woodkworking specialized school/ebanisterie) showing us how to rorrectly handle band saw blade and I was skared as h... to even hold it the right way lol 😅
"Slug mummy" are my new favorite words! Lol
I'd love to watch you sculpt a horse skull! I think it would look really cool with some flower or something like that.
Love your videos!
wow, not sure if i've ever seen a horse skull. I will have to check that out!
Your skill is stellar. Beautiful work. Some of the best designs there are, are from quilt patterns. It might be worth looking into for inspiration. I made a living at making quilts in the past. If you look around there is so much design out there. Even crochet has some unique designs that would work with wood.
My brother used to carve bowling balls into things and do metal and wood sculpture, people took notice and one of his customers had an art exhibit and show of his work, he began selling lots of it by word of mouth and doing really well, he never wanted to go that far that it became a job, he just enjoyed it. He was at a show one time and for some reason the IRS came in and fined him for not reporting his sales and not having a tax ID. He quit altogether and hasn't done anything since which is sad. I was at his house last year and his whole shop is just dormant, he never even goes into it now. If you step on a snail in your socks they will never be the same, that stuff does not come out. Your snail is awesome.
I have actually wanted to carve a bowling ball for a while now
Thanks for another great video. I especially appreciated the pricing information as I’m currently trying to decide what my work is worth for a client that basically said ‘name your price’. I’m currently doing fine woodworking but have a strong desire to try carving so thanks again for the organic inspirations. Cheers slug mummy! 🤐
Great work. Art is worth whatever the buyer/appreciator thinks it is worth. FWIW I really like the smoky resin color you used in the bear sculpture. I'm thinking of mixing something similar to fill some voids in my own projects. Can't wait for the next video.
Love this piece dude. The clear snail was definitely the better call. Great job as always.
Most gorgeous slug mummy on the planet 🤗
I would never pay that much, but I think someone out there would. Also, with the amount of hours you put into making this piece, the cost of materials, incredible craftsmanship, i think the price is justified
Only you could manage to turn a boring snail into a stunning piece of work, Blake!
Surprised you changed the snail, but after seeing the true final result, I'm glad you did. The second attempt at the snail looked so much better with the shell. Brilliant work. First video of yours I've watched, and I'm subbed. Good job
Slug mummy! Love watching your videos.
I never thought I’d love a snail so much. It’s stunning. Well done. What would I like to see next? A macaw of some sort would be nice.
I hesitated doing a snail as well but was glad I did!
Your Slug Mummy is AWESOME
Glad you like my slug mummy
Beautiful Slug Mummy ! Worth every penny ! ❤
I really like the first slug body, the waviness, glitter and translucency really made it look "gooey"
I'd keep it maybe for another project like if you want to give it another shell.
Great work. Looks great! Well worth the price in my opinion