Now that my baby elephant is done (nothing but hearts for my baby girl <333), I'm already thinking about next year's large gourd sculpture! I wasn't planning on making another, considering the 4 months of work and plenty of money I spent just to donate the sculpture to the zoo. But...I got so much satisfaction from the experience, that I'm determined to do it again. And, the zoo staff hinted at what they'd like to see so...why not!

So my next year's gourd sculpture will be...

A life-sized adolescent Western Gorilla!

Although I was debating whether or not to do a full sized chimpanzee instead. Personally I like the young gorilla's features and colors better.

Now that that's out in the open, I could really use your help...CALLING ALL HORSE OWNERS! If you or someone you know owns horses with a black mane or tail, I need you! Or rather, your horse's hair! This next gourd sculpture will be FULLY HAIRED. The entire body will be covered in horse hair for extreme realism. I don't have black horses...just brown. So what I could use is mane or tail clippings - as much as you can spare. If you're able to contribute please note me. You'll be recognized as a sponsor for next year's creation, and I'll do drawing trades for your horse hair.

Speaking of sponsors, if you'd like to be one I need monetary support as well. My baby elephant cost nearly $500 in supplies (a chunk of which came from my savings...spent so much time working on her that I didn't get to do more commissions!) And some supplies I already had lying around. Next time I'll have to buy them. ^_^' But I don't expect money for nothing of course! I'm offering prints of the best photos of my big baby. You can get photo prints, fine art prints, or art gifts like coasters, mouse pads, or puzzles! DeviantArt is awesome. :3

The available pictures for print:
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If you want to contribute some other way, I'd appreciate a note!

Thank you! I look forward to next year's creation, I hope you'll be excited with me.

~Cara