thedrifter
03-10-07, 11:26 AM
Handcrafted Honor
by Chris Durden
The Sanders' family has a long history of military service. George Sanders and his father both spent time in the Marines. His two sons and a nephew joined his sister in the Army. Now this Hutchinson Artist is preparing for a new mission, one that will take him across the country.
George Sanders has crafted totem poles for years. The sculptures usually feature native american symbols and markings. But this time, he had another idea.
"I just wanted to do something for the troops and their families to let them know their sacrifices were appreciated, says Sanders. "They were highly respected and let the families know that their loved ones were not forgotten."
After sketching out his design, sanders began the long and tedious process of scraping, chiseling and carving out his creation.
The completed totem pole includes a figure from each of the five armed services. There's also a seal for each branch, a giant bald eagle and several poems written by Sanders.
Sanders plans to take the totem pole to schools around the country in the next few months. But before he does, you'll have a chance to see it.
The totem pole will be on display this weekend at the Hutchinson Art Center. Hours are 9am to 5pm Saturday and 1pm to 5pm on Sunday. The center is at 405 North Washington in Hutchinson. Afterwards, sanders will take it to Fort Riley and show it to troops up there.
Ellie
by Chris Durden
The Sanders' family has a long history of military service. George Sanders and his father both spent time in the Marines. His two sons and a nephew joined his sister in the Army. Now this Hutchinson Artist is preparing for a new mission, one that will take him across the country.
George Sanders has crafted totem poles for years. The sculptures usually feature native american symbols and markings. But this time, he had another idea.
"I just wanted to do something for the troops and their families to let them know their sacrifices were appreciated, says Sanders. "They were highly respected and let the families know that their loved ones were not forgotten."
After sketching out his design, sanders began the long and tedious process of scraping, chiseling and carving out his creation.
The completed totem pole includes a figure from each of the five armed services. There's also a seal for each branch, a giant bald eagle and several poems written by Sanders.
Sanders plans to take the totem pole to schools around the country in the next few months. But before he does, you'll have a chance to see it.
The totem pole will be on display this weekend at the Hutchinson Art Center. Hours are 9am to 5pm Saturday and 1pm to 5pm on Sunday. The center is at 405 North Washington in Hutchinson. Afterwards, sanders will take it to Fort Riley and show it to troops up there.
Ellie