Sometimes, putting a completely ordinary item on a pedestal transforms it into a sculpture. A shell, log slice, or in this case, a piece of driftwood.
I’ve had a love affair with driftwood for a while now. This fall, I collected several pieces from my father-in-law’s ranch to make something. I drilled several tea light holes in this large piece to create a centerpiece. Usually it stays on the patio table, but I brought it in to take this picture.
After seeing Dr. Vogel’s giant sculpture, I really wish I hadn’t drilled the candle holes in that piece.
It could have looked really neat as a similar large sculpture. Instead, I used a smaller piece from my collection along with a 1/4 inch oak dowel and a scrap of 2 by 4.
After sanding the board, I measured 2 inches from each end and center on the wood before drilling holes. Then, I set the driftwood on the board and made marks to line up with the holes. With the holes drilled, I put the dowel in and made a mark where I wanted each cut.
Wood glue securely holds the dowels in the holes, and then I painted the base white. A little more glue in the driftwood and I’ve got a sweet little sculpture.
It’s interesting and different from all angles, which is really fun.
I thought it would stay in the guest room, but I really like it on the shelf above the bar.
It’s a reminder of a fun day spent with our family. And adds a lighter object to break up the books and picture frames.
I’d love to find another large piece to make an oversized sculpture. Not sure where it’d go right now, but I’d find a place. For items you can’t or don’t want to drill into, epoxy would work well, too. Just be sure your base is heavier than your display item so it won’t tip. Do you have anything on a similar pedestal? What do you think of this easy way to display simple items?
ourhumbleabodeblog.com 
I love this idea! You’re right about it lightning up a display with books and heavier items. I really like bringing in natural elements and this method makes a standout sculpture!
Hi Kathy!
Natural elements are perfect accessories, especially because they’re easy to collect without spending a penny. 🙂
Thanks!
Amanda
So perfect! This looks great. I spy my same bookends capping off your books! 🙂 Found mine thrifting for 3 bucks! That was a happy day 🙂
Thanks, Mary! Awesome score on the bookends, too. If I remember correctly, mine were six bucks at a thrift store. And they’re so heavy!
Thanks!
Amanda
G E N I U S. thank you for the idea.
Hi 343rene!
You bet! Always happy to inspire.
Thanks!
Amanda
Great idea! I’m very inspired by your style. Also, I love the art collection you have on the wall above this project. Do you have a post dedicated to that particular project? I ❤ birdies
Hey Jill!
Thanks so much for your sweet compliments!! Here’s a post with more info on the gallery wall collection: https://ourhumbleabodeblog.com/2011/04/12/birds-and-a-feather/ I had it in our first house, and loved it so much it has stayed. I love birdies, too-obviously. Etsy is the perfect place to collect art from.
Thanks!
Amanda
I completely agree! Put an everyday object on a pedestal and it turns into instant art. I made something similar but from a manzanita branch.
Hi Jennifer!
Right?! Totally elevates it (pun intended) to art status. 🙂
Thanks!
Amanda
Very cute! I glued shells into a simple pattern against paper, framed them in a shadowbox, and then wrote the date and location in the corner as if I were signing a painting. I love it so much!
Thanks, Adrienne! Your shell art sounds awesome. I have a shadow box collection, too. Love the interest it adds. 🙂
Thanks!
Amanda
I love this. i have a piece of driftwood and there’s nothing special about it but *I* like it! I guess I should spiff it up somehow to make it look art-y-er 🙂
I think I remember you talking about it before but where did you get that nest/egg silhouette? I think I want one!
Hi Jen!
The nest/egg art is by Jessica Alpern, but I can’t find her Etsy shop. 😦 I’d be happy to create a custom print for you to get a similar effect. 🙂
Thanks!
Amanda
hers was cut paper, right? I’m gonna keep you in mind. I wanted 3 eggs, and trolled etsy for an hour yesterday and didn’t find the one. Thanks!