Its Beginning As Experimental Art
This Ballroom Dancing Art began as an experiment. At the time it was done I wanted to try something and had no intention of selling the art. After it was completed I put it in the back of my studio simply because that was the original intent. The experiment was focused on a few technical elements and one big curiosity.
The curiosity was whether or not sheet music could be captured well in a 2.5d wood carving. Everything I had ever seen done by anyone involving sheet music was always a wood engraving. Cutting the wood in such a way that the sheet music would stand out as relief art from the wood is a challenge. I couldn’t help myself and tried it.
To my surprise it came out flawlessly. I expected more issues yet the wood selection in the artwork is part of what was so important. There was one matter I needed an alternative solution for that I did not originally plan. Stain would not allow the sheet music to have enough definition against the stained wood background. The lines were simply too small to allow good contrast to be seen.
Stained Wood But Painted Music
This is one of the very few times I have used paint on any artwork. There are times this can happen with letters which are also carved in a 2.5d relief format. Yet a little black paint across the sheet music fixed the matter. Once this was completed the work was beautiful. It is the only place where paint was used as the rest of the work is stain.
As it was not one of my pieces intended for initial display it sat in the background until I found it one day. I decided then it would be great if it could have a home. Its size is perfect for hanging within a bedroom or office space. Likewise the panel size is right for use as an inlay on a larger wood piece within the home.
Potential Future Art Design Concept
It is made in a beautiful Maple which has a very nice grain texture and color. This makes it unique from other regular farmed maple you would find from stores. The tree was locally harvested then dried for the purpose of either furniture making or artwork.
I am unsure as to whether or not I will make another like this piece. If I do there may be some modifications that will take place. For wood art I typically like to use a multi level design unless the design is so large that it needs the full space as a canvas.
In looking back at the design the sheet music could have been altered in a way to create a faux wood frame for the centerpiece. In the center an additional element in design could have been added or the dancing couple left as is. Nevertheless it could add to its beauty.
I have also explored the idea of adding a routed design on the outer edge of the wall art pieces. This may eventually be added to some but not all works. I do enjoy the squared edge as it is a taste thing for myself but also a functional aspect of the artwork. It allows for easier alternative use in dimensional ways within other wood pieces such as wall art inlay.
Wood Sheet Music Care
One thing to note. The artwork itself is very sturdy. Nevertheless the sheet music is relief work and it was carved in a way to give as much strength as possible. The thin lines are thicker at the base then taper towards its peak. This will help give the lines in the music and its notes durability. Keep in mind this does not mean it is indestructible.
The right amount of pressure in the wrong place could cause damage so it does need to be handled responsibly. Nevertheless it is not as fragile as a flower. The overall bulk of the wood is substantial for its size. I would not advise dropping it on your foot. Hang it securely on a wall and it will be perfect. I would try to drive a nail or screw into a wall stud for added security of the wall art.