TOMLI'S ARTOFTHEROOT - Eagle sculptures, wood art, wood sculptures, unique arts, root carving

1. Root selection. This has to be done with respect to both quality and shape of the natural root. Quality refers to the breed and the firmness of the crude root. Generally speaking, hard roots are preferable over soft or rotten ones. The shape of the root must possess its own characteristics, such as a kraurotic buttress root. To select roots with a complex shape is of equal importance. In this way, the carving can be done using different concepts.

2. Conception. A necessary feature of root art creation is originality. While root carving, the creator must make the best use of the original shape of the root and not alter its original shape so he or she can explore its natural beauty. With this in mind, the creator can then use his or her imagination and find the best concept.

3. Processing. When the concept is clarified, the superfluous roots can be sewn or clipped, and the bark removed. Then, it is necessary to polish the bald root with abrasive paper.

4. Coloring and lacquering. This is done for the benefit of antisepsis and collecting purposes. Two methods are commonly employed for coloring: one is to wax it so the artwork takes on its original color, which is simple and elegant; the other is to stain it with bronze lacquer, which can add a touch of antiquity to the root.

The most important principle to follow in root carving is to make use of the natural root. This principle usually goes like this: "three-tenths (of the work) is done by man, seven-tenths is determined by nature," attaching great importance to making use of the traits of the natural root, such as the fibers, holes, knurs, veins, color and luster. With a motif in mind, the creator should employ different carving techniques on roots of different shapes; the ultimate purpose is to integrate the unique beauty of the natural root with the cunning beauty attained by carving.

The second principle is highlighting the composition. There are quite many modes of composition in root carving, and the one most common is the "triangle setup", which is usually employed in sculpture. Other geometrical shapes, such as circles, ellipses and lozenges, are also used to further composition.
Next comes the principle of expressing the mentality and sentiment of the creator. Root carving derives from real life, and it surpasses and regresses to it. However, it is by no means a replication of real life; rather, the creator reveals his inner feelings by making use of the characteristics of the natural root.

Finally, comes the principle of pursuing beauty. No art form is detached from the material used, and root carving is no exception. Root artists have to refer to nature for materials and their pursuit of originality and beauty lies in the process of selecting roots as well as in the conception process. They must collect roots of various shapes, which give them creative inspiration. Only after obtaining a uniquely shaped root can the artist apply his or her wisdom, imagination and originality to creative root carving.

Types of root carving

1. Applied root carving. Root carvings of this type have a practical utility as well as ornamental value. Some common examples include home accessories, such as chairs, stools, tea tables, sofas, screens, flower shelves, and some stationeries, including brush shelves, ink slabs, etc.

2. Ornamental root carving. This kind of carving is primarily for decoration purposes and accounts for a large proportion of root carvings. Based on their respective shapes, they can be further classified into many types, such as root carvings featuring characters, animals, flowers, etc.

3. Aesthetic root carving. This refers to root carvings that cannot be named easily; they are also called "nameless" root carvings.