VERO BEACH — Each piece is an extension of his imagination, and by his own account, offers those who are reeled in to take a closer look, a sincere moment of cognitive contemplation, according to extreme driftwood sculptor Gary Froonjian.
His work deeply embraces an ancient cultural phenomenon, whereby infusing the natural beauty and characteristics of raw material with enigmatic shapes and figures stimulates minds and imagination, evoking consequential social interaction.
Gary and his team go through great lengths in procuring the rare and unique materials that are used for his subjects.
“We are embarked on a constant journey to locate and preserve specific types of driftwood; remnants of centuries old sunken trees, worn, shaped, and cured by the water in which they lay,” Gary said.
These rare driftwood skeletons are confined to a certain region of Florida, an area typically surrounded by razor sharp sawgrass, poisonous snakes, alligators, and maneating mosquitoes.
Countless hours go into evaluating and visualizing each piece. This is followed by the various methods and tools he uses to sculpt, shape, and finish.
Once engaged, there is no stopping. Even in his dreams, Gary visualizes his next move.
“I imagine bringing these trees back to life through sculpting what they may have encountered while perusing the ocean’s floor,” added Gary.
This level of sculpting allows for him to continuously and unconsciously immerse himself into a higher state of consciousness. Each piece is created as though it were his last, leaving him physically and mentally drained.
Gary explains how his rewards far exceed the blood and sweat he leaves behind.
“My reward is the joy that I experience when I get to witness the fruits of my labor. It is with this accomplishment that I am able to gather the strength and encouragement to do it again,” he explained.
