ART
Art is the lie that tells the truth. - Jean Cocteau
WYNN NICHOLS
Year of the Snake
A piece that resides as part of my growing collection, reminding me of the beauty in simplicity and the endless possibilities that come from working with your hands.

The process began with a lump of soft, white clay and a vision. The goal was to create a snake that exuded a sense of calm, charm, and elegance, coiled comfortably in its own skin. Carefully shaping the clay, I worked to form a smooth, rounded body with just enough detail to capture the essence of a snake—its curves, its tongue, and its unmistakable presence. As the features began to take shape, the snake’s personality seemed to emerge. The soft smile, the subtle tilt of its head, and the relaxed coil all gave the sculpture a friendly, approachable vibe. Even before any color touched its surface, the piece felt alive.


The transformation truly began when it was time to paint. Inspired by nature and the charm of handcrafted designs, I chose a palette of bright reds, greens, and metallic golds to create a floral motif. Each flower was painted with precision, adding vibrant life to the sculpture’s pearlescent surface. The white background served as the perfect canvas, making the colors pop and giving the snake a unique blend of elegance and playfulness. The small details were where the sculpture came to life. The flick of a bright red tongue and the golden accents on its scales turned the piece into more than just a snake—it became a celebration of art meeting nature. Creating this piece was an immersive experience. Each brushstroke and detail required focus and a steady hand, but the process was incredibly rewarding. Sitting at my workspace, surrounded by paints and tools, I lost myself in the joy of making something entirely my own.

Creating this piece was an immersive experience. Each brushstroke and detail required focus and a steady hand, but the process was incredibly rewarding. Sitting at my workspace, surrounded by paints and tools, I lost myself in the joy of making something entirely my own. The act of painting felt almost meditative, with each floral design flowing naturally onto the snake’s form. I wanted every detail to feel intentional, from the curve of each petal to the shimmer of gold that accented the design. The result is a sculpture that feels equal parts graceful and bold—a true reflection of the creativity that went into it.


The completed snake sculpture is a piece I’m incredibly proud to share. Its floral patterns and shimmering finish bring a sense of whimsy, while its handcrafted nature ensures no two pieces could ever be the same. It’s more than just a sculpture—it’s a story told through clay and paint, a representation of the joy I find in creating art.


