Every piece I create begins with a story. My goal is to create something beautiful while honoring the life of the animal.

Perhaps you have a skull that has been part of your family for generations. Maybe it came from a memorable hunt, a beloved ranch, a treasured animal, or an unforgettable place. Or perhaps you're simply drawn to a particular animal and want a piece that reflects your own journey, values, or transformation.

Every commission begins with a conversation.

Together we'll explore the story behind the piece, where it will live, and the colors, symbolism, and themes that are meaningful to you. I like to think of this process as co-creation. From there, I develop a design that is uniquely yours. No two commissions are ever alike.

Each skull is meticulously hand-beaded using thousands of glass seed beads and, if desired, semi-precious stones or meaningful heirloom jewelry. Every bead is individually placed by hand into a beeswax medium or other adhesive and sealed upon completion. The work is slow, intentional, and deeply personal, often requiring 100 to more than 300 hours to complete.

The Process

Let's Talk: Share your story and vision. If you already have a skull, wonderful. If not, I'm often able to help source one.

Design: Together we'll refine the color palette, symbolism, and overall direction before I provide a quote and estimated timeline.

Creation: As your piece comes to life, I'll occasionally share photographs so you can experience the journey alongside me.

Delivery: Whenever possible, I love delivering commissioned pieces in person. Shipping is also available for collectors farther away.

Creating Your Piece

Commissions begin at $4,000, with pricing varying based on the size of the skull, the complexity of the design, and the materials incorporated. Many collectors choose to include meaningful pendants, heirloom jewelry, or special stones, creating a deeply personal work of art that carries both beauty and memory.

Examples of commissioned works include the Mandala Yak, Flower Buck, Grateful Buck, and the Larimer Buck, which features a repurposed Larimer pendant set in sterling silver.

A Piece That Exists Nowhere Else

A commission is more than a work of art. It is a collaboration, a story, and a way of honoring both the animal and the life it continues to inspire.

If you're considering a commissioned piece, I'd be honored to hear your story and begin the journey of creating a piece that is uniquely yours.

Every story deserves to be told beautifully.

Contact:
christine@monumentalliving.com

Every piece begins with a story. Every story is transformed into art.

Larimer Buck — Created using a cherished Larimer pendant set in sterling silver.

Flower Buck — Commissioned to celebrate renewal and to honor the life of a special neighborhood buck.

Mandala Yak — Inspired by a visit to the Dalai Lama, the honoring of a member of the owners herd of yaks, the interconnectedness of life and a nod to the impermanance of all things.