Sculpture is deeply spiritual to Rus. His relief and bronze Sculptures speak directly of the interconnectedness that humans share with each other and the environment. These works deal with the union of form beyond physical touch.
As of January 1, 2001, I have five new works - 3 clay free-standing sculptures and 2 relief sculptures. Between these five sculptures, there is probably 120 hours of clay work time. Once the sketch is made and the armature (metal frame) completed, making the clay is the first major step.
"How will I reach the heavens?" is the clay sculpture in the foreground. As this work progresses, I'll post the developments on this page. The original conception took place in our maple grove at the family home in upstate New York. I was collecting sap for maple syrup. The crows were circling the cornfield next to the grove. I first envisioned myself rooted into the ground standing 12-foot-high with the birds encircling me.
This has become a self-portrait. To me it speaks of many mysteries - like the energy I felt in that stand of trees and the beautiful solitude that keeps one connected to nature for an eternity. It speaks of the questions of where I was at that moment and where would my life take me - it's a long journey. Perhaps it is my intimate connection with nature that has allowed me to voyage securely and safely forward in this life and to whatever is next.
I would like this three-foot image to eventually become what I envisioned. A sale of the bronze three-foot version would generate the money necessary for the full-scale image. Of course, so would a commission for a twelve-foot version. My dreams will become reality if you would like to share this vision.