Dan Ostermiller (American, b. 1956) Bear Pause, 1998 Bronze with brown patina 37 inches (94.0 cm) high Ed. 12/12 Inscribed on base: Dan Ostermiller / 1998 / 12/12 PROVENANCE: Private collection, Houston, Texas. Dan Ostermiller is widely considered one of the leading animal sculptors in America. Born in Cheyenne, Wyoming and son of a famed taxidermist, Ostermiller attained a familiarity of animal form in the family business that influenced his career as a wildlife sculptor. He served as president of the National Sculpture Society from 2011-2014 and was an instructor of sculpture at the Scottsdale Artist's School in Arizona, and at the Fechin Institute in New Mexico. Ostermiller traveled the globe observing animals in their habitat which influenced the extreme sense of realism within his own sculpture. Bear Pause, is a monumental example of Ostermiller’s incredible skill as a wildlife artist. Unlike most depictions of grizzlies on the hunt, Ostermiller portrays the bear as a light-hearted creature. Two bears lean upon one another in a relaxed posture to take a pause and observe the environment surrounding them. The gentle delineation of their faces suggest personality and a sense of calmness. Not only does this work highlight Ostermiller’s abilities in design with its elegant lines, but it also proves his mastery at sculpting animals, giving bronze the breathe of life. HID03101062020 © 2020 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved See More