About the Artist. Deana Hinchcliff Born in Las Vegas, NV Currently residing in Dallas, TX

This art form was born out of love for the land, a desire to create, and the availability of materials on hand. One of the most significant aspects of the process is collecting the materials that go into each piece. I gather where ever I go.

I am influenced by the beauty of the desert, and by a desire to share the beauty that is the Earth. I believe that we are stewards of the land and that we have a responsibility to be respectful to it and to all life. Each piece is created with an infinite regard and respect for the land. These uniquely sculpted and hand-burned designs are original creations. The natural characteristics of the leather give life and contribute to the uniqueness of each piece. They serve to connect us to where we come from.

Frequently Asked Questions.

What is it made of?

My material of choice is leather. The different applications require different tanning processes.

Do you tan your own hides?

No. I have done it in the past, but it is a very time and space consuming process.

How long does it take to complete a piece?

It varies, ranging from a couple of days to a couple of months. Because I work on several pieces at once, it is difficult to put a specific time frame on one. When they are ready to be heard, they speak.

How do you get the faces in the leather?

I created clay facial sculptures which were then cast in resin. The wet leather is then stretched and formed over the cast.

What is pyrographic art?

The images are burned into the leather using a hot iron that resembles a small blade. Each image is original and unique due to the characteristics of the leather and the free-hand nature of my work.

So, it's not a stamp?

No.

How long have you been working in this medium?

I have been working with leather since about 1990. I began "sculpting" in 1996.