Carolina, Beth and AC Button II
Carolina Sculpture Studio est. 2003
in our newly built studio, 2004
Hand carved granite sculpture is the epitome of memorial and monumental efforts. Without peer, granite endures and reigns supreme. Take your place in that tradition.
Granite Sculpture for monuments, memorials, statues and portraits has been used to produce an enduring communication since the days of ancient Egypt and beyond. It became commercially viable in late 19th Century USA, following the Industrial Revolution. European sculptors, artists, artisans and laborers trained in the ways and school of Old World Tradition came to America. Once here, they helped create a uniquely American artistic expression.
Specialties for the medium were born. Some, including the fabled Shell Rock Pitch process, remain carefully guarded trade secrets passed down only through family apprenticeship by Master Sculptor and Craftsman mentors. To the average viewer, the effect of real Shell Rock Pitch is so sublime that the artisan’s expertise is overlooked. Lacking tool marks on scalloped virgin surfaces, many think a finished Shell Rock job is simply a stone in its natural, as-quarried condition. Serious and knowledgeable granite aficionados, however, consider Shell Rock Pitch- especially when combined with quality integral carving done by a talented sculptor- to be the pinnacle of artistic achievement in stone.
After successful but arduous apprenticeship under family, sculptor AC Button II offers the finest quality granite sculpture complemented by these traditional specialties as his family has done for generations- all 100% Made in the USA. His growing portfolio of work in other media includes marble, limestone, serpentine and fine art bronze, produced for individuals and professionals. Simultaneously, he has become a trusted resource for both established and aspiring fine artists and sculptors. Choose quality handmade sculpture for your public or private project from a broad array of perspectives and media, hand sculpted to order here at Carolina Sculpture Studio.
“ “He’s one of the top stone instructors in the US. Whenever I’ve interviewed him, he has said Shell Rock Pitch is a truly lost art because no one knows how to do it properly anymore. I can’t wait to tell him about your work and show him what you can do. He’ll be very excited.” response from Ann Janiak, during interviews for American Monument Association’s Stone In America Jan 2007 cover feature article