J*Ryu -- ‘Til the End of the World’

 

J*Ryu started with an 8” Hazel by Kathie Olivas and then proceeded to transform it into a magical tree house dedicated to Mattia Fagnoni, an italian child stricken with Sandhoff Syndrome – a devastating genetic condition which results in celluar degeneration.  In order to assist in the search for a cure, J*Ryu contributed ‘Til the End of the World’ to the Zerostigmata Benefit Collective which raises funds for scientific research.

The piece is at once a tour de force of custom sculpting and a heartbreaking, yet ultimately uplifting tribute to Mattia and others suffering from Sandhoff, Taysachs and other related conditions.   The subtle touches including the mini comics, teddy bear, and hidden treasure chest capture the precious essence of childhood.  Great piece.  For more pictures and insight into the piece’s creation, be sure to visit J*Ryu’s flickr album.

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