Every so often we receive a donation for the silent auction from a truly talented artist that conceptualizes beavers in an entirely dramatic way. We are fortunate when it happens and I will never stop being grateful that our story touches the generosity of talented folks from around the world that agree to share their gifts with us.
This year the artist is Tim Andranka of New Kingstown Rhode Island. I was drawn towards his work when I saw a remarkable illustration called “the Calvary”. I wrote asking if he might consider donating a print but Tim said he had none left to share Instead he mentioned he was working on a new piece that might interest me.
Instead of donating a print Tim gave the original pen and ink drawing which is beyond stunning. Our own Martinez’ talented “I‘ve been framed” shop owner Rick Holcomb was so inspired by the work he framed it in a truly dramatic way. The finished piece is breathtaking.
Not the least of which because of its highly enviable title: Dambassador.
Since the piece is lovingly wrapped for safety I’m not sure you can see that the wood frame itself is marked with stunning divets that echo the mechanical surreal flare Tim displays so well.
I love his highly believable impossibilities. But to me this beautiful drawing is not surreal at all. It’s a perfectly symbolic representation of Beaver Dam Analogues, which are poor imitations of beaver dams that only offer a fraction of the service of the real thing. The name “Dambassadors” perfectly suggest the fact that BDAs often get a better reception and audience than the real thing, convincing people to try out the pretend effort that isn’t at all as valuable as authentic beavers.
Maybe they Damabassador at first and Rebeaver second?
Thank you Tim, for your kindness. And for the art investors among us I have no doubt Tim will be way more famous in five months and that this auction item will be a firm investment.
In the mean time I am simply horrorfied and ashamed that I never ever came up with that title myself.
