Here in Southern California, dolphins are a popular design element. Many of my clients live along the ocean, so that adding carved dolphins to their entryways or outdoor gates is the perfect tie-in to their coastal home and lifestyle. In fact, when I was younger, I used to go bodysurfing and sometimes would end up swimming with the dolphins on my way in. It was exhilarating!
I have carved many dolphin doors and gates in the last 40 years, utilizing many different styles, from classic to stylized. But I always try to keep true to form, making sure the dolphins I carve are life-like, and have the essence of living dolphins.
These dolphins are true-to-size, and are on both sides of the glass, making them appear very lifelike.
I took this door down by the ocean to get this photograph.
This is a very classic style. The dolphins look almost regal!
This is a closeup of the above entryway. The handles are carved seashells.
The dolphins in this entryway are "swimming" in a leaded and textured art glass design that I made.
Here is another example of dolphins "swimming" in the entryway. I created the art glass to have a splashing effect to flow with the carved ocean water in the woodwork. This was a very fun design to create as it captures the playful feeling one thinks of when they think of dolphins.
Another classic design. These doors are massive arches, with arched glass sidelights to enhance them.
Full-scale, life-size dolphins "swimming" in a group.
Dolphins are playful, and somewhat magical, living creatures. They always seem to have a smile on their face, a twinkle in their eye, and the curiosity of a child. While many different styles of dolphins can be incorporated into my entryway designs, there is one thing they all have in common, and that is their playful zest for life.
