For a short while, I contemplated not including the medallion inlay in the blog.  I figured it would be a nice surprise for family and friends when the guitar finally arrived.  I quickly realized, though, that the medallion is really the spiritual essence of the instrument, and to exclude it from discussion would be kind of ridiculous.  It is something that needs to be shared with others.

So without any delay, here is the first sketch that incorporates all the major elements of my design.  Jack is very contently lounging in an Adirondack-style chair, smoking his familiar pipe.  On his ears, large headphones play some of his favorite music.  In a well-worn shirt, he surely couldn’t be more happy.

When I received this sketch, I was at a loss for words.  How difficult it must be, I thought, to evoke emotion (especially one as subtle as contentment) out of a skeleton!  That this first sketch seems to me so easily identifiable and familiar, is really a wonder.

This concept sketch was sent for my approval so I could let Susan and Mica know if they were heading down the right path… Needless to say, I’ve given the go-ahead to develop this scene.  Subtle refinements, the addition of color and texture, and the selection of materials will soon follow.  It will probably be another month or so before I see some evolution, but I will have a full-color, to-scale rendering to approve before any material procurement or carving begins.

As for Jack, I wish I knew for sure what he was listening to.  Although I have some ideas of my own, I think this just might be one of the great unanswered questions of our time!