Karin Sprague and her team of stone carvers work in a rustic barn in the woods of Scituate, Rhode Island. When you step inside, you feel as though you've entered an earlier time as you're greeted by the warmth of the wood stove that sits below a shelf of antiques once used here.
The studio houses a desk, drafting table and two large work benches for sketching, design and prototypes. Ultra-sturdy easels of varying sizes are spread out for the carvers to simultaneously work on multiple pieces of slate. And above these easels, built into the ceiling joists, is an intricate support system of various support structures, rigs and pulleys to move the stones in and out of the studio and along to the appropriate work stations.
From the pulley system to the tools and even to the heated wood stove you are surrounded by all things traditional and done by hand. A variety of chisels lie beside a grinding stone that provides just the right edge for each chisel. And beside the work stations you can see each carver's favorite hand-worn mallet. The only glimpse of the 21st century is the computer tucked away in the upper room for communication, research and record keeping. Yet even when you're in sight of the computer, the constant tnk-tnk-tnking of the carvers' mallets tapping chisels below remind you that you really are witnessing another time & place.
A few years ago the upper room was added to provide a quiet space for client meetings, reflection and contemplative design work. This room stays true to its purpose. You feel immediate zen-like calm as you enter what also feels like a place from an earlier century. A sitting area, a large antique rolltop desk and a full wall of small windows greet you and you are compelled to relax and be. Yes, this is the place to open your heart and share your stories and photos of the loved one you're here to remember. And Karin will guide you each step of the way.
For a compassionate confidential telephone consultation call Karin Sprague at 401.934.3105. If you prefer, contact us via our contact page and Karin will call you.
