January seems to be a good time to publish a blog post about the Birthing sculpture. It was created in 2024. It is a small piece that fits in your hand, cupped in your fingers. It may be picked up and held. It is made of a material that will withstand touch, but, of course it should be respected.
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More photos and information about this sculpture may be found here. Here you’ll find more photos of the work, along with a link to its sales page.
Trigger Warning: The Birthing sculpture explores the intense, beautiful, and raw experience of childbirth. While it’s not graphic, the piece does depict a woman in the act of giving birth, an image that may be emotionally stirring or sensitive for some viewers. Please proceed with care, and feel free to step back if this theme isn’t something you’re ready to engage with today.
The Birthing Sculpture
Birthing is more than a sculpture to me; it’s a deeply personal piece that speaks to the raw, primal, and beautiful reality of bringing new life into the world. In this work, I poured my heart into expressing the powerful experience of childbirth, not through a literal form, but through an abstract, contorted figure that conveys the intensity, strength, and vulnerability that childbirth brings.
The spark of inspiration came from a video about a young artist-in-residence workshop that took place more than 40 years ago. A 10-year-old girl crafted a small figure of a woman giving birth, pairing it with two masks—one happy, one confused. The masks could be interchanged between the mother and the baby. The sculpture was shared by the teacher of this young student. I was struck to my core. In that moment, I knew I needed to explore this theme in my own way. Her piece gave me the impetus to create Birthing, a tribute to the journey I’ve experienced and the journeys of women everywhere.
As I crafted this piece, I wanted it to feel honest and unfiltered, to reflect the primal energy of birthing. This isn’t about a beautiful, sanitized version of childbirth. It’s about the elemental, fierce, and sometimes chaotic experience that brings life into being. I didn’t aim for perfect anatomical detail, but rather for the spirit and instinctual drive that takes over. I used CosClay, a material that invites touch. I want those who see it to hold it, to feel its weight and texture in their hands—to connect with it physically, as childbirth connects us all on a primal level. It fits in the palm of a woman’s hand.
Bringing The Birthing Sculpture to Life with Touch
One of my deepest beliefs as an artist is that art isn’t just to be looked at; it’s to be felt. That’s why I chose a material that allows for a more tactile experience, something I hope brings you closer to the story Birthing tells. I invite you to pick it up, feel its shape, and connect with the intense emotions it embodies. Childbirth is not only a physical act but an emotional journey, and this piece is my way of honoring every moment of it—from the first stirrings to the final push.
Perhaps Birthing will speak to you, too.
How to display a small sculpture such as the Birthing sculpture in your home or office
Small sculptures are a versatile and unique way to enhance any space, adding texture, personality, and depth. Unlike traditional wall art, small sculptures invite viewers to interact from different angles, creating a dynamic focal point. These pieces are ideal for tabletops, shelves, and even nooks, where they bring an artistic touch without overwhelming the room. When arranging small sculptures, consider grouping them with complementary items like books, plants, or candles to create a cohesive vignette. Using varied materials—like metal, clay, and wood—adds layers of interest and can reflect personal style or taste. Small sculptures are also perfect for tight spaces, adding artistic flair to a corner or entryway. Whether abstract or realistic, these pieces bring individuality and warmth to your home, making each room feel curated and thoughtfully designed. Small sculptures are the perfect way to add art to any size space.