Herd About The Prairie

Buy T-shirts, Posters and more to help restore the bison!

Candace Osborn

Ada, MN

Growing up in rural Minnesota gave me an appreciation for nature that is reflected in my art and my education. I became an educator, teaching Life Science in Nebraska and later Art in Minnesota. We returned to this area four years ago to live near my family.

I have always enjoyed drawing and painting, and more recently wood sculpture. My carving is mainly done the old-fashioned way, using tools and techniques that are centuries old. I create original works both in relief and in-the-round, finishing them either with paint or a clear coat that shows off the natural wood.

When I heard about the Herd About the Prairie project, I thought that it would be an interesting and enjoyable way to use the skills I've developed in painting and sculpture. The tabletop bison have been both challenging and rewarding; it has been a pleasure to be a part of this project.

Carousel Star
As a carver, I have become interested in carousels. There has been a resurgence of interest in collecting, restoring, and creating carousel animals. Many skilled carvers found work in this craft around the turn of the century. The carousel animals ranged widely in design, complexity, and kind. Themes were often used to decorate the beasts, many of which were historic or patriotic in nature.

My bison is the star of his carousel, proudly bearing the colors of his country.

Bison Winter Blues
Bison are stoic looking animals, well adapted to surviving our cold, snowy winters. I've been impressed by photos I've seen of bison coated in snow, calmly enduring the storm. This tabletop bison is totally at home in an icy environment. With a glint of winter sunlight playing on his snowy surface, I think he even enjoys it.