Millions of YearS Old specimen at MY fingertips

Wildlife Awakens… and So Do the Collectors

It always amazes us how quickly word travels. We haven’t even launched the Wildlife Awakens catalog yet, and already, our Bear-themed sculptures are quietly being spoken for.

If you’ve followed Lyle’s work, you may recall that many of his more complex compositions begin with a 50-pound block of rough jade. Before the artistry even begins, there’s the sheer physicality of sculpting—hauling, cutting, shaping—stone that’s harder than steel. Only diamond-tipped saws can tame this medium. And even then, it’s the artist’s vision and persistence that reveal the soul of the stone.

There are few sculptors today willing to take on the preliminary labor of carving away what doesn't belong, especially at this scale. It’s one of the reasons Lyle is regarded by art critics as a sculptor of preeminent stature—his dedication to the entire process, from the raw form to the refined.

At the moment, Lyle is working on an awe-inspiring owl sculpture set atop a base of agatized petrified wood—estimated to be over 200 million years old. Discovered in a small antique market in Arizona, this rare material adds both story and substance to an already majestic piece. We were fortunate to secure just enough of this ancient stone to incorporate into a handful of works.

This year has also brought a pleasant surprise: another gallery has requested a dedicated series of Bear-themed sculptures. While we hadn’t anticipated this surge in demand, our commitment remains unchanged—you, our private collectors, will be the first to have access to a select few of our classical bear pieces.

Here on the West Coast, spring is making itself known. Magnolia blooms and cherry blossoms frame the studio in vibrant pinks and whites, a fitting backdrop to a season of renewal and release.

We’re incredibly excited for the Wildlife Awakens launch on April 16th. If you’ve ever imagined owning a Sopel original—especially one from a collection already gathering momentum — keep an eye out. Something timeless might be waiting for you.

All the best,

Colette Gauthier ( Sopel )

Creative Director, Book Author.