The Making of the “Resurrection Burial Bench” for St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church, New Albany, IN
Sunlight from the Stained Glass
Beautiful Natural Effects
The sun showing through the stained glass windows that surround the bench creates a beautiful effect on the folds of the cloth.
Limestone Block
The Block Arrives
The Limestone block started out a little under 2100 pounds. It measured 60” x 20” x 20”. St. Mary’s art committee wanted a stone bench that represented the resurrection of Christ for the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary
Sample Carving
The First Step
I presented a variation of artist Al Nelson’s original idea. Al passed away prior to being able to complete the project. I decided to carve the cloth wrappings and face covering that Jesus would have had been wrapped in before placing on the slab.
Limestone block and “cloth” sample
Drawing in the Design
I drew in the lines of the design so I could start carving.
Limestone Block with Initial Cut Lines
Starting The Carving
I started by using a diamond blade on a grinder to cut and define the design to be carved.
First layer of carving
The Stone Starts its Diet
In order to have room to carve the cloth and face covering, stone has to be removed from the rest of the sculpture.
Additional Layers of Carving
More Layers
Carving more layers on the top before starting in on the cloth.
The Flipped on its Side
Just Turn it on its Side
I needed to carve out a good portion of the bottom to reduce the weight of the piece.
Bottom of the Bench
A Very Restrictive Diet
The bench lost a lot of weight! I cut out 48” x 8” x 10”.
Hand Carved Lettering on the Bench
Hand Carving the Letters
While I had the bench on its side, I took advantage of that and carved the lettering. I had never done lettering and thought it would be easier now than when it was vertical.
Hand Carving Lettering Completed
“Resurrection Stone Bench”
Installation Complete
The completed “Resurrection Burial Bench” installed in the Sanctuary
