Wilderness Guide. Taxidermist. Sculptor. Tim Cherry.

The artistic path of Tim Cherry is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection to the natural world. Born in Calgary, Alberta, in 1965 and raised in the rugged landscape of Nelson, British Columbia, Cherry's artistic evolution is as intricate and fluid as the sculptures he creates today. His work celebrates wildlife with a unique blend of grace, movement, and subtle whimsy, reflecting a lifetime of intimate experiences with the wilderness.

At sixteen, Tim Cherry's professional journey began not in an art studio, but in the vast, untamed wilderness of northern British Columbia. Working summers as a cook and wrangler for a hunting outfit, he quickly graduated to guiding clients on two-week expeditions by the time he was eighteen. These formative years were more than just a job; they were a profound education in observation and appreciation of wildlife.

"Escaping into the wilds was then, and still is a spiritual experience," Cherry shares. These wilderness experiences were crucial, training his eye to capture the nuanced movements and personalities of animals - a skill that would become fundamental to his sculptural work. The Yukon and Northwest Territories became his classroom, where he developed an intimate understanding of wildlife that would later translate into his art.

Cherry's fascination with animals led him naturally to taxidermy, a craft that required an intricate understanding of animal anatomy. At nineteen, he sought out Forest Hart, a noted taxidermist and manikin sculptor in Hampden, Maine. This pivotal moment would transform his artistic trajectory.

Working with Hart, Cherry learned to sculpt mannequins used in taxidermy, developing an extraordinary skill in modeling animal musculature. More importantly, he was introduced to the magical world of fine art bronze casting during a visit to a New York foundry. This experience was transformative, as Cherry realized he had found his true calling.

"Even though I was unaware of any aspirations for a future in fine art, my interests were going in that direction," Cherry reflects. This moment marked the transition from preserving animals to celebrating their essence through sculpture.

In 1988, Cherry's path took another significant turn when he met sculptor Dan Ostermiller, who invited him to his studio in Loveland, Colorado. Here, he worked alongside renowned sculptors like Ostermeller, Fritz White, and others, refining his craft and developing his distinctive style.

Fritz White became a particularly influential mentor. "I learned direction, enthusiasm, and perseverance from Fritz White," Cherry said. "He taught me the importance of mass and volume and gave me the confidence to keep trying different options, never quitting on a design."

Cherry's sculptural approach is characterized by simplified shapes and curvilinear forms. "My sculptural approach involves orchestrating elements into sculptures that are rhythmical, flowing, and inviting to the touch," he explains. This philosophy results in bronzes that pulse with life, capturing not just the physical form of animals, but their personalities and behaviors.

His unique style quickly gained recognition. By twenty-five, he was a member of the Society of Animal Artists, and by thirty, Tim Cherry had been elected to both the National Sculpture Society and the National Sculptors Guild. Awards followed, including the James Earl Fraser Sculpture Award in 2001 and the Gold Medal from the National Sculpture Society for his piece "Flea Flicker."

What makes Tim Cherry's sculptures truly special is their ability to connect with viewers on a tactile and emotional level. His highly polished bronze surfaces catch and reflect light, creating pieces that are not just visual but incredibly inviting to touch. As Cherry himself notes, "With smooth surfaces, I have a large palette of options... I enjoy experimenting with colorful lively patinas."

Collectors appreciate not just the artistry but the exclusivity of his work. Cherry issues his sculptures in small editions, each piece a carefully crafted celebration of wildlife. His art can be found in public settings across North America, in private collections internationally, and gracing the pages of prestigious art magazines.

Tim Cherry's journey from wilderness guide to renowned sculptor is a remarkable narrative of passion, skill, and deep respect for the natural world. His bronzes are more than sculptures; they are stories cast in metal, inviting us to pause, observe, and appreciate the grace and complexity of wildlife.

As Cherry himself humbly acknowledges, "It takes a tremendous amount of teamwork to cast bronze. I am extremely grateful for everyone involved with my artwork, their efforts mean a great deal to me. As the saying goes, 'It takes a village to raise a child.' Well, I feel it takes a tribe to raise a sculptor! My family, friends, peers, foundry personnel, patineur, galleries, and collectors – are all part of that tribe.” His words are a testament to the collaborative spirit behind his art and his profound gratitude for the journey that has defined his life's work.

Tim Cherry's artistic vision extends beyond sculpture through TLC Fine Art Jewelry, a collaborative endeavor with his wife Linda that transforms his sculptural designs into wearable art. Drawing from Tim's decades of wildlife sculpting experience, the jewelry line represents a unique fusion of artistic expression and personal storytelling.

Influenced by Art Nouveau's fluid compositions and avant-garde aesthetic, TLC Fine Art Jewelry captures the essence of Tim's sculptural style in sterling silver, gold, and precious stones. Each piece is meticulously crafted by expert artisans in the heart of America, bringing Tim Cherry's wildlife-inspired designs to a broader audience.

Linda Cherry brings her own rich background to the venture. Her passion for jewelry was sparked early, inspired by a small blue bug pin her grandmother gifted her as a child. With experience on sales and advisory boards for international jewelry brands, she contributes a specialized eye for design and a deep understanding of the jewelry market.

"TLC Fine Art Jewelry is a joyful expression of art, animals, and nature," the couple explains. "Wearable art that speaks to your inner animal." Each piece tells a story, transforming Tim Cherry's celebrated wildlife sculptures into intimate, personal adornments that can be worn every day.

Recognized as one of the most influential artists to watch in the 21st century, Tim Cherry's sculptural designs find new life in these jewelry pieces. By integrating complementary shapes, lines, and colors from his original sculptures, Tim and Linda create jewelry that is truly "Unique as You" - a testament to their shared artistic vision and deep connection to the natural world.