Naomi on display at ATHICA Gallery in 2024
Photo by Jill Fineberg of Michelle with Naomi
Krysia with the real Naomi (early 2000s)
Naomi in Sherri Warner Hunter's workshop (in TN)
Naomi mosaic progress with good company
Naomi (1990-2020) is based on a real Burmese Python who was raised by my late sister Michelle, who raised her from a small coil to a large python (nearly 17 feet / 5 m long). The mosaic sculpture (~ 34" / 85 cm wide) is similar in scale to the real snake. The sculpture was made in a workshop with Sherri Warner Hunter, who provided essential guidance for my upcoming mosaic play sculptures. The mosaic work was completed a few months later.
Long ago, before I was even making sculptures, Michelle mentioned commissioning a mosaic sculpture of Naomi, planting a seed. Eventually I followed through with the project, in memory of Michelle and Naomi.
Note: I discourage this species as a pet, but Michelle was devoted to caring for Naomi for 30 years, and became a veterinarian who specialized in herpetology (with an endless fascination with reptiles and amphibians).
Naomi on video:
