David Manuel | Larry Braden Manuel | Ann Yoder
David Manuel
David Manuel, born of Italian descent and raised in Walla Walla, Washington, began his career in art at a very early age. David's aunt
sold his sketches to pilots at a nearby bomber training base. The sketches, selling for a dime each, proved David's talents at age 3 1/2
years. Later, a first grade teacher recognized David's talent, encouraging his mother to be supportive. At age nine, David received his
first national award, which was judged by Normal Rockwell.David continued his art abilities throughout his school years and as a young adult. This included having one-man shows inside a Safeway store where he was employed. His first painting sold for $45.00. David now began to take his talent more seriously.
David Manuel's career has grown rapidly, with his paintings valued as high as $20,000.00 and into the three dimensional art world. Much of David's success is attributed to having his own museum, where he is able to spend hours in research. The "Nez Perce Crossing" Museum is where the authenticity for which he is so respected originates.
The world of bronzes have been very good to David. In the 1980s he had the honor of many commissions, among these three monuments of JOHN WAYNE. This gained him the title of "Authorized Sculptor" for Wayne Enterprises. Later in the '80s, David was chosen the Official Sculptor for the "UNITED STATES MARSHALS BICENTENNIAL." This monument previously on display in the founder's wing at the Cowboy Hall of Fame, is now placed at the Department of Justice in Washington D.C. A smaller replica of this bronze has found its home at the White House in Washington D.C.
In 1992, David and his wife Lee were honored with a request from the office of the Oregon Trail Coordinating Council, Oregon Trail Celebration '93. Among many honors this included a monument designed by the artist. This assignment also held the title of "The Official Sculptor for the Oregon Trail." The political uprising from this statue gained national recognition and respect for the artist who was proud to portray historical accuracy in place of political correctness; David's faith proved to be beneficial and met approval by many. In the year 2002, David sculpted what may be recognized as the most complete depiciton of Lewis and Clark.
In 2005 "The Bronze Valley" in Northeastern Oregon expanded into La Grande. Hot Lake Springs, rich in the Native American and Pioneer history. Could it be that the final home of Manuel History and Bronze has been found?
One will need to be alert to say the least, to keep up with "what's happening" with this, accomplished, and still accomplishing artist. The Manuel Museum now located at Hot Lake Springs, houses an array of artifacts which compliment and play a major in David's artistic talent.
It's A Family Affair...
Papa's Mattie Marie
Papa's Mattie Marie
Larry Braden Manuel
A premature birth during the Christmas season of 1981, Larry Braden Manuel was immediately identified as a miracle child. Heart monitors
and respiration assistance were a constant part of Larry’s first year. Perhaps the required stillness allowed for the artist within him
to emerge.Later, in his young life an accident caused an extremely introverted, quiet little boy to spend his first year of school in a body cast. No doubt the young artist continued to grow during yet another “still” time.
As a young child, Larry would spend hours carving bars of soap and playing with clay at the feet of his father David Manuel in David’s library.
As an adolescent, Larry was drawn to the procedure of sculpture and lost wax casting. Larry was a key player in the coordination and building of two bronze foundries with his family. This experience opened great opportunities to expand his skills. Having the personal understanding and experience in each step of the “hands on” procedure, while overseeing the bronze casting of David Manuel. Naturally it was just a matter of time until Larry moved into the world of his own bronze sculpting.
Today, the young man who learned how to be still as a child is a strong gentle leader of his entire family. Perhaps his stillness is one of his most important attributes. Psalm 46:10
Larry was the catalyst who brought his family to Hot Lake Springs.Now with a family of his own, Larry stepped into a new life phase. With the love and support of wife Megan along with his sense of humor required to raise his children.
Larry is influenced with a playful inspiration as well as his love for wildlife.
Hot Lake Springs, what a great studio of nature to “kick off” the sculptures career of Larry Braden Manuel.
“I’ve always liked working with my hands and enjoy sculpting. Having a picture in my mind, then seeing the finished piece is exhilarating!”
Larry Braden-Manuel
Don’t miss out on the first of this career. Let us introduce you to "Pond Life."
View Larry's brochure on "Pond Life."
Ann Yoder
www.AnnYoder.com
View Ann's brochure about her and her watercolor art.
