N.D. sculptor creates statue of former President Bush

Former president and first lady George and Barbara Bush recently celebrated the unveiling of a larger-than-life sculpture of the former president, now on display at the George and Barbara Bush Center at the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine. The solid marble statue was created by John Andelin of the Williston Ward, Bismarck Stake, in North Dakota.

__IMAGE1__Andelin was honored for his depiction of the former president in a posture suggesting optimism and vision. Andelin and his wife, Cindy, described the entire event as "overwhelming."

"As an artist, I am depicting his image, and that trust is a high honor. As with other pieces I've created, I want to convey a message," Andelin said of sculpting the first President Bush. "I personally have a great deal of respect for George and Barbara Bush; their devotion to each other, their personal integrity and dedication to family values."

The artist also indicated that the Bushes each told him they were very pleased with the sculpture, which was unveiled Sept. 17.

"That's so gratifying to hear, because the ultimate goal of a sculptor is to produce a work that will be pleasing to the subject as well as to the public," Andelin said.

To carve the 9-foot sculpture, Andelin first acquired a 19,600 pound block of Colorado Yule marble. Initially, the stone was roughly sized with the aid of a diamond studded hydraulic chain saw. In addition to traditional carving methods, Andelin utilizes computer-assisted 3D technology for his artwork.

In 2003, he met with President Bush at his presidential library in Texas, where he obtained 3D facial scans of the former president.

"A 3D scan of the face is essentially a digital life mask", Andelin explained. "This is an invaluable assistance in the creation of an accurate likeness."

A self-taught sculptor specializing in realistic works, Andelin indicated that he's "always been drawn to sculpture". He began woodcarving at the age of 15. As a father of seven children and a physician, his busy life prevented him from devoting as much time to art as he would have liked. Since 1993, Andelin has progressed from a part time hobby to a time-consuming but satisfying personal pursuit.

__IMAGE2__Andelin has also served as a branch president and is a former bishop of the Williston Ward. He currently teaches gospel doctrine.

Andelin's previous works include "The Dawning of a Brighter Day," a life size marble sculpture of the young Joseph Smith, on display at BYU-Idaho; "Contemplating Moroni's Promise," a woodcarving on display in the Conference Center, and a marble bust of the Savior, also displayed in the Conference Center. In 2005, he created marble reliefs depicting cultural elements of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These are currently on display at the visitor's center of Arlington National Cemetery. To see these sculptures, go to his Web site at www.heroicmarble.com.

Andelin says he has plans to continue to create marble sculpture, primarily with religious subjects and themes. But he is currently receiving inquiries to create portraits of other high profile figures as well. His goal continues to be, "To create works of art that will uplift and inspire, ennobling both the subject and the observer."