Steve Kestrel (American, b. 1947), Messenger

Monumental dark patinated bronze model of a raven, edition number 9/15, signed "S. KESTREL" to the lower plinth. Accompanying the work is the artist's monograph catalogue Steve Kestrel, published in 2007 by Gerald Peter's Gallery, ink signed and dedicated by the artist.

42 x 17 1/2 x 23 in.

Private Collection, Edenton, North Carolina

A casting from this edition can be found in the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Wyoming.

Steve Kestrel grew up in southern New Mexico at the interface of the high desert and Sacramento mountains. Nature is at the very core of sculptor Steve Kestrel's artwork, specializing in representational carvings and bronze works of the flora and fauna that surrounds him and his and wife, Cindy, on their 43-acre “wildlife preserve” in Colorado’s Redstone Canyon. Rooted in the American Southwest, his life has been shaped by the land and art owes its inspiration in part to the geological secrets within its soul. Kestrel indeed acknowledges an interest in ancient cultures, allowing that an early interest in art, anthropology, and paleontology fostered his growth as a sculptor. He also maintains a deep understanding of the material and process, as well as masterfully exploring complex themes of the beautiful and sinister in nature, mythology, ancient cultural relationships, and environmental stresses.

Kestrels work is represented by Gerald Peters Gallery - Santa Fe, New Mexico; James Graham & Sons - New York, New York; Simpson Gallagher Gallery - Cody, Wyoming; Altamira Gallery - Jackson, Wyoming; Claggett / Rey Gallery - Vail, Colorado; Main Street Gallery - Saint Jo, Texas; American Legacy Gallery - Kansas City, Missouri.

Good condition; some attractive light greening to the patina.