Desert Totem Background 

The process of constructing totems begins with inspiration.  I am an avid snorkeler and scuba diver with fond memories of the varied, colorful life on coral reefs.  However, in the last 7 years I have spent months in and around the Chiricahua Mountains of Southeastern Arizona--a magnificent and sacred region of unparalleled biodiversity.  This region has become my inspiration.

My Sonoran Desert subjects are varied—cactus, birds, lizards, flowers, frogs, rabbits, etc.  Some are abstract, others stylized or realistic.   Each piece weighs from over a pound to a few ounces and measure a few inches to a foot.  The completed totems are from 3-5 feet in height.

I use cone 5-6 white sandstone clay.  Each element is hand-built, using pinch, coil, or slab technique.  Each piece has two holes to thread onto a ¾ inch metal rod. Thus, stacking each piece onto the next, to complete the totem. Major elements take from 7-10 hours to shape, underglaze (which I mix myself), sand, and apply final glazes. 

As construction builds, attention is given to the relationship between elements, both color and shape.  After the first bisque firing, the totems are again assembled, and final connecting adjustments made.  Following glaze firing, the totems go through final assembly, where silicon is applied to the base ofeach piece cushion and seal each piece.  The underside of the base is coated with a sealant. Each totem takes from 2-4 months to complete.

I use two types of bases.  One with cement for freestanding display, the other has two holes for the rod to fit through to anchor in the ground.  To do this, the rod should be 1-2 feet longer than the totem.  For instance, a 4-foot totem would have a 5-6-foot rod, depending on the density of the soil and ease of hammering it into the ground.  Just below the surface of the ground, one can insert a coffee type can with holes for the rod to fit through, then filled with cement to add ballast.

Totems add color and joy to their surroundings.  They are very easy to clean.  Simply spray with water to remove dirt, and/or wash with soap and baking soda.  Old stains can be removed by soaking in white wine vinegar.

Enjoy!