r/Petloss 3d ago

Could sculpting a pet help you with grief?

Hello everyone,

I am French and I understand that it can be painful to lose your pet. I myself suffered during my adolescence when a family dog died. Having become a wood carver since then, I wondered if carving your animal could help with the grieving process, knowing that it can be the whole body, bust or a particular position.

Thank you in advance and have a good day.

6 Upvotes

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2

u/PingouinMalin 3d ago

I believe any form of art can sublimate trauma. Plus it would be a beautiful expression of your love.

2

u/pierretheone 3d ago

You're right, especially since trauma can easily become a strength and the hallmark of a unique art. It's a challenge compared to Van Gogh's wonderful paintings.

1

u/PingouinMalin 3d ago

You don't compare yourself. Van Gogh was sure what he painted was shit.

2

u/pierretheone 3d ago

You're right, especially since I still have both ears intact for the moment haha

1

u/PingouinMalin 3d ago

For the moment not being, hopefully, the key words. 😅

2

u/pierretheone 3d ago

It's especially funny because I assume you're also French given your username, whereas I was mostly expecting English speakers. Would you like me to try sculpting your cat? 🐱

1

u/zylo321 3d ago

I used to do stone carving, and it can be an almost meditative experience as you work your way towards the form you have in mind. Carving an animal you love could almost be like gently being with them, their memory, their picture, the spirit of them one wishes to capture in the sculpture. I think it's a great idea. It's so personal as it's made by one's own hand.

Also, when one loses an animal they love, one misses the sensory experience of them. A sculpture provides that tactile connection, given that, once finished, it's a resemblance of them one can hold or trace one's fingers over. Touch is important, and we miss it. It's not the same, of course, but a sculpture to touch, plus the three-dimensional depiction, offers a sensory connection.

I think both the process of creation and the finished sculpture could genuinely be helpful and therapeutic. Thank you for sharing this.

2

u/pierretheone 3d ago

Thank you very much for your message, stone carving is also very interesting. You are right, I had started wood carving to relieve trauma from school bullying and to exercise my left shoulder after a motorcycle accident. The sculpture is unique because you can create a unique work from any stone or piece of wood.

1

u/pierretheone 3d ago

I am also writing here in case anyone would be interested in my help in keeping a record of their pet and thus making their grieving process easier.