Every sculpture I create tells a story – not just in the wood itself, but in the lives and love behind it. Some pieces stay with me long after I’ve put down the tools, and Rex’s sculpture is one of those.
A Rescue with a Special Birthday
Rex’s story began back in 2014, when he was rescued from the streets of Ireland. He was just a stray pup – around six months old – when he found his forever home. His family gave him a birthday of 16th March, which felt especially fitting as it shared the same month as his owner Stuart’s birthday.
From what I’ve heard, Rex was full of spirit right from the start. Having never lived indoors, he had a lot to learn, and training him wasn’t always easy. There were even a few mischievous moments that earned the family a polite request not to return to puppy classes! But with patience and love, Rex grew into a devoted companion – loyal, gentle, and full of character.
Daddy’s Boy
Rex’s bond with Stuart was something special. He followed Stuart everywhere and seemed to understand him in that quiet, intuitive way dogs often do. He always behaved best for him too – perhaps knowing that Stuart was ‘his’ person.
When Stuart sadly passed away last year after a short battle with cancer, it was a heartbreaking time for the whole family. And like so many loyal dogs, Rex felt the loss too. His behaviour changed, and it was clear he was grieving alongside the family.
A Wish Fulfilled
Before he passed, Stuart had often spoken about wanting a carving of Rex for the garden. He’d even looked through my website, imagining what the piece might look like. Life, as it sometimes does, got in the way, and the idea remained a wish.
When Stuart’s family got in touch to finally make that wish a reality, it felt incredibly meaningful. This wasn’t just about carving a likeness – it was about honouring two lives deeply connected by love and loyalty.
“I’m so glad Stu discovered Simon before he passed away – I knew I had to find him to honour Stu’s wishes,” says Corinna. “I’m not on social media, but I said to my daughter we needed to track down the tree carving guy – and luckily, we did!”
Capturing Rex in Wood
When I began carving Rex, I wanted to capture more than just his features – I wanted to bring out his spirit. His alert ears, the intelligence in his eyes, and the gentle stance that reflected his nature.
As I worked, I found myself thinking about him and Stuart, and the bond they shared. It felt like I was telling their story through every cut and curve of the wood. Once the form was complete, I carefully sanded and sealed the piece, choosing a finish that would protect it from the weather and let the natural beauty of the timber shine through.
A Lasting Tribute
Some sculptures feel like art. Others feel like something more – a memory, a moment, a continuation of love. Rex’s sculpture is one of those.
It stands now in the family’s garden, just as Stuart had once imagined, and I hope that every time they see it, it brings comfort and a sense of connection – a reminder of a faithful friend and the man who loved him so deeply.
Corinna shares, “Ever since Rex’s carving has been in the back garden, I’ve had countless people knock on the door just to see him. They were terrified of him when he was alive, but now they’re delighted to see him immortalised in wood! My mother-in-law was moved to tears when she saw the carving, and my daughter simply said, ‘Dad would absolutely love it.’”
I feel very honoured to have played a small part in their story.
