If, as Dr. Clark believed, the universe is basically friendly, would it not seem logical that his wee Gnomes and Woodspirits be kindred spirits with their animal neighbors? This is the philosophy behind the delightful series of artworks that combines the sculpting talents of Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe. They have chosen the name “Kindred Spirits” for their new series, for this describes not only their sculpted creations, but also the two artists them-selves.

THE ABC’S #6319 (Sales Associate Achievement Award) (April, 1995) What is the cause for this special celebration? The Woodspirit and his two animal friends are throwing a “block party” for the people who really know the ABC’s of Cairn сrеations – the hard-working and dedicated Cairn Sales Associates. Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe have created this Kindred Spirits artwork to honor the Sales Associates who have qualified for the Cairn Sales Associate Achievement Award, and it will be available exclusively to these Associates through a special program. They are the kindred spirits who provide the bridge between Cairn Studio and its Collectors all over the world. To those who have “Satisfactorily Completed the Prescribed Written Examination and Demonstrated Exceptional Sales Expertise and Initiative” Cairn Studio would like to say thank you and congratulations. The little rabbit sums it up: You’re #1!

ALASKA #6324 Special Commission (June, 1995) The very name Alaska conjures up images of its colorful and exciting gold rush days of the late 1800s. My gold miner, inspired by the Robert W. Service poem, “The Shooting of Dan McGrew,” is hoping to strike it rich along Alaska’s Gastineau Channel, where gold was first discovered. keeping with Alaska’s state motto, “North to the Future,” he has climbed north on this totem pole to insure his future! It seems that a curious brown bear from Kodiak Island (sculpted by Timothy Wolfe) has wandered by his claim. Totem poles are the “storytellers” of the Alaskan Indians, recording events and history for future generations. My totem also tells a story: The eagle (with his eagle eyes) was the first to see the bear. He told the owl. The owl was wise enough to tell the Wood Spirit, and he told the miner, “Climb to the top!” At the very bottom, a little Gnome from Nome seems bemused by all the commotion. He is not afraid, and in fact, he considers the bear to be a kindred spirit! The coin on the base tells us that Alaska joined the Union on January 3, 1959, making it the 49th state. A second coin says “Land of the Midnight Sun” and depicts a dog sled. During the Alaskan summer the sun shines 20 hours a day, and at Point Barrow, the northernmost point in Alaska, the sun never sets between May and July. The fishhook on the base hints at the great fishing and incredible scenery found in the largest of the United States. Alaska was nicknamed “Seward’s Folly” when Secretary of State William H. Seward bought this region from Russia in 1867 for seven million dollars (that’s about two cents per acre). Today we know that Alaska’s beauty, resources and people make it a priceless treasure.

ANDY HAPPY NEW YEAR #6315 (Cairn Seminar Series)(September, 1994) The 1995 holiday season isn’t over – now it’s time to welcome in the new year. Andy knows Christmas is all about hope, and what could be more hopeful than twelve new months? He asked his rabbit buddy to “sing in” the new year with him. The rabbit held up the calendar page for the very first day of 1996 and thumped, “It’s a date!” Andy has a rakish party hat and an Irish coin showing a hare, in honor of his friend. Andy thinks it’s great that his name is the bridge between these two special holidays. So strike up the band and let’s all join in song: “We wish you a Merry Christmas Andy Happy New Year!”

BEARLY AWAKE #6303 (October, 1992) Push! Pull! Shove! Tug! These three fellows are trying to wake up a sleepy bear cub. It’s the first day of spring and Woodspirits know that it’s time to stop this hibernating business and get on with playing, and they think they’ve found a kindred spirit. But this baby bear found some plump blackberries on his first excursion outside the den, and with his tummy full he dropped off for another snooze. Since the mascot of Bern, Switzerland, is a bear, this statue has four Swiss coins totaling forty francs, for 40 winks. One Woodspirit has stolen a franc and stashed it in his backpack, thinking this will shorten the nap by 10 winks. Like many of the other Kindred Spirits sculpted by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe, Bearly Awake isn’t complete without a poem:

Can these Gnomes

Wake up this cub?

Chicago wants him

For the scrub.

Though they’re Cub Scouts, 

They’ve got their doubts!

But will he wake

If they make

A honey cake?

For a cub,

That’s perfect grub.

But he’s still not up;

Ah, that’s the rub!

BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL #6320 (April, 1995) This statue takes its name from the beloved hymn written by Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848: “All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful: The Lord God made them all.” This Woodspirit child picked a basketful of summer roses, and then wove a garland for her hair. As she walked home through the woods, the magical scent of their velvety petals wafted by the nose of a tiny bunny. His heart told him he had nothing to fear, so he hopped over to meet a new friend. How bright and beautiful is the kinship between the Woodspirit and animal world, as celebrated in this and other Kindred Spirits statues such as “Bunny Love,” “Thirst Aid” and “Cotton Tales.” The artists have included their signature touches – a snail from Tim Wolfe, and a coin from Tom Clark (this one from Zimbabwe pictures a hare). “Bright and Beautiful” will be followed by two companion statues, “Great and Small” and “Wise and Wonderful.” Together these three artworks celebrate the hymn’s last line: “How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.”

BUNNY LOVE #2504 (Cairn Key and A Dealers Series)(May, 1994) The breeze is a mite gentler, the air is a bit sweeter, and the flowers – well, they seem to open on cue and then smile at the sunshine. What transforms the ordinary forest world into a special, sparkling place? Why, bunny love, of course. You’ve heard of puppy love, and in the Woodspirit world there’s a loving bond between the wee people and their rabbity neighbors. Whether working (“Vet”) or playing (“Cotton Tales”) or going about the complicated business of growing up (*Thirst Aid”), the Gnomes and their animal friends find that they are always kindred spirits. This little bunny has picked a bouquet and is sharing a tender cuddle – it’s a little “crush.” The two artists have left their signature touches – a snail from Tim, and a coin (showing an Irish hare) from Tom. The leaves are greener, the sky is bluer – all when some bunny loves you.

BUNNY SLOPE #6328 (Cairn Seminar Series)(September, 1995) Isn’t it amazing that the entire world can change without making a sound? This little bunny and Woodspirit were tucked up into their beds and fast asleep when the snow started to fall late last night. But fall it did – steadily and silently, until the whole forest was magically transformed into a white, fluffy, frosty playground. They awoke to hear their three favorite words: “No school today!” In no time at all these kindred spirits were pulling the sled to the top of a knuckle-clenching, gut-wrenching monster of a hill. Well, it’s actually just the bunny slope, the beginner’s hill. Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe decorated the front of the sled with “1997” for, like their friends from “Cairn Christmas 1996,” they are headed for the holidays and the new year. The subway token reads “1 Fare” – their little sled can really hold only one daredevil at a time. But on the next trip down, some bunny’s going to have some fun!

CAIRN CHRISTMAS 1994 #6310 (March, 1994)

In the forest, like the city,

Christmas comes to one and all.

It’s the time for celebration

And to brightly deck the hall.

The chipmunk thinks it’s fun and games, But then, he can’t recall The careful planning that takes place All throughout the fall. The Gnome says this tradition (Which we’ve honored since St. Paul) Is for the infant Christ Child Who was born in manger stall. These kindred spirits, Chipmunk and Gnome, Will raise a tree so tall, Then place upon a fragrant branch This special Christmas ball. Cairn Christmas 1994 is the first offering in the new Cairn Studio annual Christmas collection. This Kindred Spirits statue is a glimpse into the world of the Woodspirits and their animal neighbors – at Christmas time! The Gnome is putting the finishing touches on a new red ornament, and the chipmunk is eagerly waiting to carry it to the top of the tree. Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe have left their signature touches – a snail from Tim, and from Tom, a 1652 coin from Massachusetts (spelled Masathusets) that shows a pine tree. Like ourselves, these forest friends (who are truly kindred spirits) enjoy the annual traditions of this most special holiday season.

CAIRN CHRISTMAS 1995 #6314 (September, 1994) Outside, the dark, frosty night is quiet. Inside, the kitchen is a happy quilt of sounds as supper is cooked and the day’s news is exchanged. Then, by the window, a tiny whisper of music is heard from far away, and it becomes louder and sweeter until there is a joyful noise right on the front porch. Carolers! It just wouldn’t be Christmas without music. Sharing a songbook, the Woodspirit and his rabbit buddy are singing their way through the forest neighborhood to spread, as their coin says, season’s greetings. This Kindred Spirits creation is the second in Cairn Studio’s series of annual, dated Christmas figurines. These two carolers have but one wish for you: “We wish you a Merry Christmas!” 

In the forest, like the city, 

Christmas comes to one and all. 

In the distance, like a whisper,

Hear the forest carolers call. 

As their voices, gently singing, 

Carry through the winter night, 

Families gather, doorways open,

Suddenly the dark is bright.

Let the joyful sound be heard 

In every corner of the glen, 

It’s Christmas time, with this one wish:

Peace on earth, good will to men.

CAIRN CHRISTMAS 1996 #6326 (August, 1995) The joy of Christmas giving is celebrated in the third member of Cairn Studio’s Annual Dated Christmas Series. Dressed for the holidays in his Santa Claus cap, the little Gnome is giving his squirrel friend the gift of a free sleigh ride. The squirrel has a gaily-wrapped hickory nut to be delivered at the very next stop. He knows that the best gifts are those that you’d like to receive yourself. The festive sleigh is decorated with a jingle bell, and the personalized license plate reads “Ho Ho Ho.” These kindred spirits have a token for free parking from Concord, North Carolina. Christmas is the season when we seem most able to live “in concord” with our fellow man. But just like the slow-moving snail, it seems that we wait so long for it to arrive! 

In the forest, like the city, 

Christmas comes to one and all, 

With words of cheer, sincere and witty,

Welcome friends who come to call.

Exchanging gifts, for short and tall, 

(Check the list not once but twice) 

Something here for one and all, 

Boys and girls both naughty and nice.

CAIRN CHRISTMAS 1997 #6335 (May, 1996) It wouldn’t be Christmas without ribbons and bows. For some, wrapping gifts is a disagreeable chore. But for others, it’s a delightful and traditional holiday pastime. This industrious Gnome has a special purpose to his gift wrapping endeavors. He thinks that a large red bow will transform this furry bruin into a cuddly teddy bear. “A teddy bear?” thinks the bear, greatly amused. “Hardly! I’m real!” And therein lies the secret of this special season – shiny wrapping paper and colorful ribbons don’t change the real meaning of Christmas. This Kindred Spirits statue by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe is the fourth member of Cairn Studio’s Annual Dated Christmas Series. The artists have included a small snail and a coin shaped like a teddy bear’s face. Tom and Tim’s wish for Collectors is this: May your gifts be wrapped with love and tied with joy, and may you have the best Christmas ever!

In the forest, like the city, 

Christmas comes to one and all.

Greens and ribbons now appear,

Decorating house and hall.

Packages are gaily dressed,

To hide the books and ties and toys!

Loving gifts in clusters nested, 

All a part of Christmas joys.

CAIRN CHRISTMAS 2000 #6367  This Christmas statue is special since it is the first Christmas of the new millennium. “Slappy” the Beaver and the Santa gnome are bringing in the season with a bang! They have borrowed a big bass drum from the marching band at Western Beaver High School in Beaver County, PA. While Santa beats on one side with his drumstick, the beaver is banging on the other side with his tail. Slappy has just finished gnawing down the Christmas tree (Santa has brought an ax along just in case the beaver needed help.) For his efforts, Slappy was given a coin. It just so happens to be a Canadian nickel that depicts a beaver! The last century was spectacular, yet these two 21st century drummers are saying “We can beat it!” Merry Christmas and a Happy Millennium New Year everyone! EDITION CHANGE: Cairn Christmas 2000: January 2000 Release – In one edition, there are no leaves on the base of the artwork. In a later edition, a leaf has been added to the back of the statue.

CATFISHING #6341 (February, 1997) This little Gnome went a-fishing. And when his creel was full of trout, he treated himself to a catnap among the cattails. Upon awakening, he discovered a real cat burglar – a kitten fishing in his basket. Do you have anything to say for yourself? Cat got your tongue? But it’s not a cataclysmic catastrophe – this good-natured fellow is happy to share. The Italian coin shows the one that got away. Maybe next time these kindred spirits can go catfishing together. What a fish tale!

CAT NAP #6368 (1999) CATS sleep ALOT!! They don’t sleep in long stretches, but usually slumber in a series of short periods, hence, the term Cat Nap! Whiskers, the cat , and his Gnome Friend, Wink, have entered the Land of Nod . Whiskers became sleepy after following a set of bird tracks that turned out to be the bird prints on the bottom of Wink’s boots. Whiskers’ instincts aren’t entirely off base since he later discovered that Wink was carrying an English coin with a bird on it. In any event they sure appear to be enjoying this little nap….zzzz…!

CHARMING CHUMS #6344 Cairn Key and A Dealers Series (April, 1997) Harvey’s nephew and Gulliver’s niece are on a mission! They are determined to see the wee Charmers that they’ve heard so much about. “Can you imagine? Shorter than Uncle Gulliver’s hat!” “Smaller than Uncle Harvey’s rabbit’s foot!” This is something that they have to see for themselves. So they’re waiting by a mushroom, hoping that the tiny Gnomes and forest animals will soon appear. A snail has joined them, but he doesn’t take up much room. They have two coins from the Cayman Islands that express their friendly purpose: “No man is an island” and “Birds of a feather flock together.” The Charmers aren’t strangers – they’re just friends they haven’t yet met.

COOKIE BREAK #6316 (Cairn Key and A Dealers Series) (October, 1994) These are two smart cookies! When it’s time for a break, they take a cookie break. Sandwiched together on this soft spot of forest floor, they’re relaxing while enjoying everyone’s favorite treat. The Woodspirit and his squirrel friend are sharing a chocolate cookie – when it’s broken in half, it looks like a smile! Best friends always share, and friends that share are the best kind of friends. These kindred spirits are happy to give some of their snack to the snail passing by. Cairn Collectors contributed the two coins on the statue: an OPA rationing token from World War II (when butter and sugar for cookies were scarce) and a French franc showing a 2, in honor of the two pals. I think the Woodspirit is good for a few more cookies, but the squirrel has just maybe had enough. Well, that’s the way the cookie crumbles.

COTTON TALES #6308 (August, 1993) A good story-teller is a treasure. And every story-teller needs a good listener, like this small Gnome. There couldn’t be a better way to while away a summer’s day. The hare on the Irish coin and the snail are listening, too, but the snail became frightened and hid inside his shell. The little Gnome is so engrossed in the story that he has forgotten to do his chores before supper. That’s what happens when you’re listening to a hare-raising tale.

A rabbit tells his cotton tales

That this Gnome finds hare-raising.

His fluff he got from cotton bales;

Now isn’t that amazing!

FRAN’S PECANS #6336 Special Commission (June, 1996) The Christmas preparations are underway and these two forest friends are hard at work. The Santa Gnome is both art director and head of distribution. He is painting the special holiday tin tops that were created by Fran’s Pecans to commemorate Christmas 1996. squirrel is in charge of quality control – in other words, he’s the taste tester! He loves his job and is more than willing to work overtime – even weekends and holidays. There’s only one explanation for this type of enthusiasm at the job site – they’re sending Fran’s Pecans to everyone on their list. Although pecans are a wonderful Christmas tradition, they are great, as the tin says, “For All Occasions.” And take the squirrel’s advice – keep some for yourself. The sculptors have included their signature touches – a snail shell and a coin. Actually, there are two coins – a Canadian dime and an American dime – both perfect “tens,” to match the two perfect tins! This Kindred Spirits statue was created by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe for Fran’s Pecans of Harlem, Georgia, celebrating 60 years of fine quality and service.

GIDDY-UP! #6339 Cairn Promotional Series (September, 1996) “Do Not Disturb” reads the sign on this sleepy turtle. It’s not too much to ask, is it? Just a few moments of peace and quiet for a quick forty winks – that’s all he wants. But two mischievous Gnomes have a different idea. Paying absolutely no attention to the sign, they’re trying to entice Mr. Turtle to come out and play. Why sleep the day away when the world is beckoning, filled with fun and games and new places to explore? Even the duckbilled platypus on the Australian coin wants this fellow to come out of his shell. Only the snail is sympathetic to the turtle’s plight. He knows that carrying one’s house around all day is a tiring job, and that an occasional nap is a lovely treat. It’s too late. The Gnomes are rarin’ to go, and they are convinced that turtle transportation is their ticket to adventure. Why waste any more time? Let’s get this show on the road – Giddy-Up!

GNOME GNAP #6343 Cairn Promotional Series (April, 1997) Naps are nice, as this bear can tell you. He stepped outside, in his bare feet, to take a short break from spring cleaning. He was barely asleep when a little Gnome joined him for a nap. That fur is so soft – who could blame him for snuggling up to the gentle bear? This gneighbor gets to gnab a gnice gnome gnap.

GOPHER IT #6330 Collector Society Artwork Series (October, 1995) What a terrible shot! It’s one thing to be in the rough, but this is ridiculous. Far, far from the smooth, green fair-ways, the little white ball came to rest in this gnome’s back yard. As for the gopher, well, he generally considers the entire golf course as his personal acreage. It’s such easy digging, and so quiet after dark and on rainy days. His tunneling activities, however, result in mounds of dirt wherever he exits his underground pathways, thus destroying the pristine appearance of the delicate greens. Normally a sensitive fellow, the gopher remains oblivious to the grief he causes the golf course greenskeeper. Can these two ever live together harmoniously and become kindred spirits (like the Gnome and gopher, sculpted by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe), united in their love of the course? Probably not. Speaking of which, will the unlucky golfer ever make it back on course? The Fiji half-penny has a hole-in-one, but it hasn’t brought much luck. It’s a two-stroke penalty to reposition one’s ball, something this golfer can ill afford. These two golf analysts have studied the angles. Take their advice – gopher it.

GREAT AND SMALL #6322 Cairn Key and A Dealers Series (February, 1996) This statue takes its name from the beloved hymn written by Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848: “All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful: The Lord God made them all.” In a great, huge ostrich egg, a very small bird sits in his nest, hoping for breakfast. His mother has flown far afield (like the bird on the coin from Barbados), searching for a special snack for her neighbor. In the meantime, a kindly Gnome has brought a treat for the hungry youngster. Notice the bags under his eyes, for he “got up with the birds” to make certain the early bird got the worm. This statue celebrates the truism, “It’s the little things that make life friend-A Kindred Spirits artwork by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe, “Great and Small” is a companion statue to “Bright and Beautiful” and “Wise and Wonderful.” Together they celebrate the hymn’s last line: “How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.”

GRIN AND BEAR IT #6337 Cairn Seminar Series (July, 1996) You just never know what the New Year will bring! The bear cub was quite surprised when he was chosen to be the New Year’s Baby. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it. So it’s on with the official 1998 banner, with a little help from his Gnome buddy. Still, it’s an honor, to be sure, and he’ll do his best to represent the hopes and dreams of the beckoning future. The French centime shows a “1” in honor of January 1, the first day of the new year. It’s almost time for the New Year’s Eve celebration. The bear cub is a reluctant celebrity, but he has the support of his friends. The Gnome’s advice for him and his new year: Grin and bear it!

IT’S A TIN! #6340 Special Commission (September, 1996) The Christmas preparations are underway and these two forest friends have been working hard. They’re sending delicious Fran’s Pecans to everyone on their list. They’re nuts about them! It hardly seems like work to pack the special holiday tins designed exclusively to celebrate Christmas 1996. This Kindred Spirits artwork was created by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe of Cairn Studio, who congratulate Fran’s Pecans of Harlem, Georgia, on 60 years of fine quality and service. The sculptors have included their signature touches – a snail shell from Tim and a coin from Tom – a French franc that now reads “Fran.” We’ve caught these two tiny taste testers at break time. The squirrel has cracked open a fresh pecan for his Gnome buddy to enjoy. How does he score it? “It’s a Tin!”

JUMPING JACK #6311 Collector Society Artwork Series (April, 1994) Here’s an odd pair of Jacks. Jack is playing Jumping Jack, to Jack’s great surprise. This bullfrog was not in the mood for games, but before he could say “Hit the road, Jack,” the Gnome had leap-frogged over him! Next it will be his turn to jump over Jack. Let’s hope he looks before he leaps, for if he jackknifes, it’ll take a jack-of-all-trades with a jack to get him back on his frog legs. On the base you’ll see another jack and a small snail (in his hard-shelled jacket). Created by Tom Clark and lim Wolfe, these jumping Jacks have a coin that insures they Il have a “Good Time.” Finding a kindred spirit – that’s hitting the jackpot.

KEVIN AND CORA #5152 (May, 1991) Kevin and Cora is the first collaboration between Cairn’s founding artist, Tom Clark, and its newest artist, Tim Wolfe. Kevin (named for actor/director Kevin Costner) is sitting atop a large mushroom. The “Wolfe” he wishes to dance with is a little brown mouse. Kevin has kernels of corn for Cora, whose field of dreams is a ripe cornfield. She tells Kevin, “If you plant it, I will come.” Cora takes her name from the address of Tim’s first house. Will the cat on the Australian coin start a cat and mouse game with Cora? Not to worry – the cat’s looking in the wrong direction, and there’s “no way out.”

LEAP FROG #2501 Collector Society Artwork Series (November, 1993) Every leap year Kent the gnome and Tad the frog take a trip to the beach. First they check with Halley, the Woodspirit weather wizard, to guarantee a perfect day. Kent, like his hero Superman, dreams of leaping over tall buildings. His friend Tad is a tad too small for such grandiose ambitions, but no matter – they’re having a ball. There’s something about the sand and the surf that just makes them jump for joy. Perhaps they can persuade the frogs Hawthorn and Bob to join in their jumping jamboree. The Woodspirits Justin and Carl are also the right height for this game. Leaping lizards – what a long leap frog line that would be! There’s a game token in the sand that says “Fun and Games,” the description of a perfect vacation for these two best friends.

McNALLY #6329 Collector Society Artwork Series (October, 1995) It started as a whispering rustle among the topmost branches of the tulip poplars. Then the hummingbirds hummed a hint to the Gnomes, and the squirrels began chattering – Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe have moved! Where in the world is the new sculpting studio? There was only one thing to do – unfold the map and start driving. McNally and his turtle transportation, an old friend named Rand, are on their way. As Rand’s license plate says, it’s good-bye to the old home place. McNally does not like to stop and ask for directions, but he’s sure he can navigate from the map as soon as he gets his bearings. The trip was delayed slightly as they stopped to pick up a hitchhiking snail. Bad luck, he was from out of town and this was all new territory to him also. I wouldn’t say that they’re lost, only that they are exploring most of the back roads of Mecklenburg and Iredell Counties in North Carolina. In hopes of making better time they brought along a coin from South Africa, showing a gazelle, and a commemorative medallion from the U.S. Olympic Track Team. There will be a happy ending when Tom and Tim look out of the window of the new studio and see Rand, McNally and map.

MICHIGAN BOUND #6318 Special Commission (January, 1995) “Oh, I’m Michigan bound and see what I’ve found. This happy driver has decorated his car with pennants and souvenirs that celebrate the great state of Michigan. Best of all, he’s giving a lift to a friendly wolverine, for Michigan is nicknamed the Wolverine State. He has a morel mushroom and a lucky Petoskey rock, and cherries decorate a miniature version of the Michigan “mitten.” Michigan touches four of the five Great Lakes, and has more than 11,000 smaller lakes – no wonder this Woodspirit comes prepared for great fishing and beautiful scenery with a canoe tied to the back of his car. His license plate identifies his roadster as a 1917 Model-T, and he has a coin that depicts another great classic car – the 1907 Thomas Flyer. With his raccoon coat and warm lap robe, he is on his way to a weekend of college football. The wolverine is also anxious to get to the big game. Wait – stop the car! There’s Michigan the Gnome, waiting for someone to drive him across the Mackinac Bridge. Surely these kindred spirits can make room for little Michigan. What luck – he has a map. Now they’ll know which way is UP!

MINNESOTA #6332 Special Commission (January, 1996) Minnesota is home to two of the most beloved characters of American tall tales. The huge lumberman Paul Bunyan stands next to Babe, his giant ox, sculpted by Timothy Wolfe. He’s holding an ax, but in this great state, he has no ax to grind! Babe, well, she’s looking a little blue. The tiny Gnome by the map is thinking, “They’re bigger than the whole state!” The 32nd state, also known as the Gopher State, achieved statehood on May 11, 1858. The capital is St. Paul, and the largest city is Minneapolis. It is the biggest of the twelve midwestern states and is known for its major manufacturing areas, rich farmland, and magnificent scenery. A leading agricultural state, it is also nicknamed the Bread and Butter State. This statue has more acorns than any of the other Cairn state artworks, to honor Minnesota’s important timber industry. The Boundary Waters area in north-em Minnesota, with its many sparkling lakes, is a popular tourist destination (note the man on the coin, reeling in a big fish!). In fact, Minnesota’s name comes from two Sioux Indian words meaning “sky-tinted waters.” A second coin shows the state flower, the pink and white lady’s-slipper. The commemorative stamp depicts a man playing ice hockey, a popular sport in this cold weather state. The little Gnome does not know the state motto, “The Star of the North.” But he does know that he wants to hear another tall tale!

NO PASSING ZONE #6312 Cairn Promotional Series (May, 1994) This turtle gives new meaning to the term “four on the floor.” With great finesse but with total disregard for the traffic laws, he roared past (in a manner of speaking) the other fellow on the road, who was traveling at a snail’s pace. But you can’t escape the long arm of the law, and the offender was quickly motioned over to the side by a sharp-eyed constable. He’ll surely be given a ticket – yes sir, the policeman is already making a note on the leaf of his citation  book. This Kindred Spirits creation has the “standard features” – a snail from Tim Wolfe and a coin (a Connecticut Tumpike token) from Tom Clark. What possible excuse can the turtle give to avoid the rap? Perhaps he’ll try the old “practicing for the big race” story. It’s tough to have the body of a VW beetle and the soul of a Porsche.

P.C. AND MANUEL #6333 (February, 1996) It’s a mouse on a mouse! Little Manuel is reading the manual. He and his friend P.C. want to join the world of computers. With an acorn as the power source, it’s doubtful that they’re receiving reliable data. Still, P.C. has been hacking away at this for so long that he’s beginning to look a bit like a mouse. He even has a tail to tell. Manuel hopes to receive some email, but he’ll feel less than WordPerfect when he spots the cat on the large ASPCA coin. Included on the base are two telephone tokens – when P.C. and Manuel hook into the phone line they can surf the internet. But do they know how to swim? Everyone said that the computer would change their lives. Well, it sure has taken a mega-byte out of their day.

PICTURE THIS! #6325 Cairn Promotional Series (August, 1995) Picture this: a Gnome is taking a photograph of the local hero! The toy camera must have slipped out of a school satchel or a pocket that needed to be mended. So many children run and play in this patch of woods, and there’s no possibility of finding the real owner. But Gnomes and Woodspirits know the importance of putting all things to good use, so surely this unexpected prize should not be ignored. The coin depicts an elephant, and therein lies the story of this tiny mouse’s heroism. The Gnomes were frightened by the thought of being crushed under an elephant’s huge foot. (Elephants, on the other hand, are fearful of mice.) The little mouse said, “T’ll handle this,” and he slowly approached the mighty beast. As he got closer, he saw that the elephant was tiny enough to fit on a coin from Somalia! You know, sometimes the biggest tasks are accomplished by the smallest one. Now his friends would like a snapshot of their hero. The cheese cracker saved for a mid-morning snack has been pressed into service as a small pedestal, but it will still be just as tasty after the photo shoot. The newest Kindred Spirits statue by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe will join Cairn Studio’s Group Promotional Series. Those are also great opportunities for taking photographs of friends! The shot is lined up, everything’s in focus. Now all that’s needed is a smile. Say Cheese!

P.U. #6301 Cairn Promotional Series (July, 1992) This little Woodspirit is a college student who attends P.U. and he’s standing by the school mascot, sculpted by Timothy Wolfe. He’s very scentimental about collegiate sports, but it’s been many years since any of P.U.’s teams have scored a point against an opponent. Seems that at every game they get skunked. The Korean coin shows a flower similar to the ones being enjoyed by the skunk. Maybe it’s time for the P.U. players to resort to their secret weapon:

Roses are red and violets are blue, 

With fragrance to make a Gnome drunk.

But roses and posies

Can’t curl up your toesies

Like eau de cologne by Skunk.

PUPPY LOVE #6327 (August, 1995) Dog-gone it, why won’t this puppy get up and play? He ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog, but these Woodspirits are anxious for fun and games with their new friend. Like the fellows from “Bearly Awake,” they know that this is a kindred spirit with which to enjoy a fine spring day. So, with dogged determination, they are trying to get this pup on his feet. Some have brought along dog biscuits, while one brave Gnome has climbed up high enough to scratch the puppy’s head. Still, the perplexed pup hasn’t moved – he must be dog-tired. The two coins from Ireland picture a dog and a hare, and therein lies the secret to solving their dilemma – when this puppy catches the scent of a hare, he’ll be off and running. But if he leaves his new friends behind, he’ll be in the doghouse!

QUIET AS A MOUSE #2503 Cairn Key and A Dealers Series (November, 1993) The autumn leaves sifted softly down, creating a crisp and colorful blanket over the quiet pumpkin patch. To Harvey, a weary harvest mouse, the top of the tiny pumpkin proved to be an irresistibly inviting nest. With a tummy full of seeds he curled himself into a wee, furry ball and nodded off. He had spent a hectic but productive morning gathering bits of string and twine for his Woodspirit neighbors. Both mice and Woodspirits are kindred spirits in their love of nature, and are dedicated recyclers. Besides, as his mice friends Cora, Emma and Esther can confirm, one never knows what special goodie may tum up! There is already one surprise – Tip the Gnome, whose toes tread ever so lightly, has come upon this sleepyhead. Unlike his three buddies in ‘Bearly Awake,” Tip is letting his young friend finish his nap, and requests our cooperation, too! But chances are that Harvey will be awake and eager to play before the snail can detour around the next pumpkin.

THE RACE #9032 Collector Society Artwork Series (March, 1992) It’s the day of the big race. This statue, based on Aesop’s fable “The Tortoise and the Hare,” is a collaboration by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe. A helpful Gnome is standing at the finish line, ready to wave the checkered flag for the winner. Unfortunately for the young rabbit, his over-confidence got the better of him. Thinking he was far enough ahead of his friend the turtle, he stopped to nibble at a patch of strawberries. Remembering his father’s advice that “Slow and steady wins the race,” the little turtle plodded diligently along. Now he’s approaching the finish line, while keeping one eye on the flagman and the other on his opponent. The rabbit was amazed to find the turtle now ahead of him, and is making a valiant last ditch effort, but it’s too late. The Gnome is both excited and surprised because the winner is – the tortoise – by a hare! The rabbit’s coin is from Zimbabwe, and the turtle’s coin is from the Cayman Islands. The Gnome’s South African coin tells you that “2 Rand” the race. You may have noticed the two snails also watching the race. One asked the other who won, and he replied, “I don’t know – it all happened so fast!”

SHHH! #6313 (June, 1994) “Not a creature was stirring, not even -“Wait a minute! Someone is still awake! It’s a tiny Woodspirit, dressed in a red flannel Santa suit. He has a special gift for his sleeping friend – a small gold bell for belling the cat (on the Australian coin). Oh, he must be this little mouse’s Secret Santa! While the field mouse dreams his Christmas dreams, his friend will leave the present and tiptoe away. All Kindred Spirits know ’tis better to give than to receive, and ’tis always fun to give a secret gift! Won’t this mouse be surprised when he awakens and finds that Santa paid him a visit? Help keep the secret – Shhh!

SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT #6338 (August, 1996) Who is that masked man? That’s Smokey’s friend, the Bandit. These two kindred spirits love playing “Cops As usual, the raccoon takes the part of the bad guy, but he’s eyeing the deputy sheriff’s badge on Smokey’s shirt – raccoons just love to play with shiny objects. Did you notice the small twig he’s holding behind Smokey’s back? It’s a stick-up! But Smokey knows it’s all in fun. He looks a little like Andy Taylor when faced with yet another of Barney Fife’s crazy schemes. Meanwhile the Bandit has been joined by his rather slow accomplice, the small snail. From the Overland Express Casino in Reno comes a rare token that was made for the famous “one-armed bandit” slot machines – another example of highway robbery!

SOUR GRAPES #6305 (January, 1993) Actually the grapes are quite sweet, as an industrious little Gnome could tell you! But the unsuccessful and hungry fox is happier thinking he’d get no pleasure from this snack. This is the second Kindred Spirits sculpture by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe that takes its inspiration from Aesop’s Fables. Each artist included his “signature” touch: a snail from Tim Wolfe, and an Israeli coin depicting a vine from Tom Clark. Don’t you think that, before day is done, the Gnome will share his bounty and these two will find that they really are kindred spirits?

The fox threw rocks at purple grapes

So juicy on their bower.

“They’re just too high”” said with a sigh,

“They’re higher than a tower.

I’d use a stake, but it would take 

Some poking for an hour.

And anyway, I’d have to say,

I’ll bet those grapes are sour!”

The Gnome caught sight of Foxy’s plight 

And soon his eyes did narrow.

“T’ll climb the vine and then I’ll dine 

On grapes in all their flower.”

He climbed the vine that would be wine

And shook with all his power.

The grapes fell down (around a pound!)

And filled his wee wheelbarrow.

And to this day, a Gnome, they say, 

Out-foxed a fox so dour.

SPRING CHICK #6323 (May, 1995) Easter morning. The sun gently rises in the eastern sky. In the forest, its light first touches the velvety carpet of moss. Then it reaches to the tiny blades of grass, where it shimmers like diamonds on every drop of dew. Finally it pours a golden light around each gnarled tree trunk. The spring morning is beautiful, quiet, peaceful. Just a minute. There appears to be a slight commotion at the Woodspirit Easter Egg Hunt. One of the hidden treasures has begun to make a very definite tap-tapping sound. Then the smooth white shell began to break apart. This Hunt is more than it’s cracked up to be! The Gnome – well, he’s a good egg. He set down his jelly beans and left the game to lend assistance, and even his Irish coin shows a hen with two chicks. With a little more help, the newcomer will soon be ready to join the Easter celebrations. In the season of new beginnings, that’s the perfect spot for a spring chick.

SPRING CLEANING #6304 (January, 1993) Sometimes spring surprises us. The evening belongs to winter, but by next morning the forest is an almost magical arbor of glowing green leaves and warm sunshine. And ’tis magic indeed to see a newborn fawn, surrounded by four helpful Woodspirits. Currier and Ives are currying her with a small pine cone and a pine needle brush. Buff is buffing her hoofs with a day lily leaf, while Waterman offers her a drink from his acor cup. A nearby snail is curiously watching all of this gentle activity. Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe decorated the base with over 250 acorns, and the newly-minted coin (only half a buck!) was a gift from Tim’s father, Barry Wolfe. Tom composed the poem for this newest addition to the Kindred Spirits collection.

Spring has sprung, and they’ve begun 

To clean this newborn fawn,

A deer so young, her song not sung,

Her life began at dawn.

Each Gnome will comb from hoof to dome,

Pampered on the lawn.

She has a beauty seldom seen, 

And when you blink, she’s gone.

SURPRISE! #6334 Not a creature was stirring, not even -” Wait a minute! Someone is still awake! In fact, it’s two somebodies. In the middle of the night a hungry Gnome crept under the Christmas tree, searching for a midnight snack. Ahh – a box of Christmas nuts – that should do the trick. Surprise! The trick is on him, for a tiny mouse has already discovered this box of holiday treats. In the Christmas spirit, he’ll happily share his bedtime bonanza. And before Christmas Eve becomes Christmas morning, these two kindred spirits will be nuts about each other. The coin (a penny molded into a token from the Ashe County Cheese Factory) promises another delicious gift under the tree that will be enjoyed by both mouse and Gnome. Sometimes the best part of Christmas is a Christmas surprise.

TAILGATE PARTY #6307 (July, 1993) How do Kindred Spirits celebrate a perfect fall day? They throw a party, and they have found the perfect location for it. Their host has been busy as a beaver getting everything ready. Wisely, the Woodspirits brought their own refreshments. Can they convince their friend that fresh corn is a mite tastier than the log he’s been gnawing on? “Try it, you’ll like it,” urges the little fellow holding the basket of kernels. Joining the party is a tiny beaver (on the Canadian coin) and a snail (arriving late, as usual), And when the party’s over, it’s back to work for this industrious beaver.

Beaver, beaver, build a dam,

Even the snail is waiting,

To see you cause a logging jam

Which we will watch, tailgating.

THE LAST HUNDRED YEARS #6370 It has been a real race for Bannister, the turtle, and Lewis, the hare, to make it from 1900 to 1999. It would seem that the race belonged to the swift, but Lewis became fascinated and fixated with the monument around which they were racing. There are approximately 550 names and events listed by decade and as Dr. Clark so aptly explains, “The choice of persons, products and occurrences is highly subjective and reflects my personal experiences and viewpoint. My criteria was, first, their influence on history and/or American life and, second, were they charismatic.

THIRST AID #6306 (May, 1993) There were just too many mouths for Mother Rabbit to feed. As usual, the runt of the litter was the first to get short-changed, as he was too small to compete with his brothers and sisters for a place by Mom’s side. This last little rabbit has a coin from Zimbabwe, the last country in the alphabet. But look at him now! A concerned Gnome came to his rescue with a tiny baby bottle and an unending supply of patience. At first this bunny could only drink a small quantity before nodding off for yet another nap. Now he polishes off an entire baby bottle full of fresh, warm milk (pastureized, thanks to an obliging cow in a nearby meadow). The Gnome encourages him, “Drink your milk so you’ll grow big and strong!” and the carrots and baby com are a sample of future treats. He knows that rabbits love to hear, ‘Eat all your vegetables!”

A wee little rabbit was born in a glade, 

The runt of the litter and not worth a trade.

But now this wee chap has it made in the shade 

For a Gnome gave him milk that is

Grade A Thirst Aid.

TIM-SAN/TOM-SAN #6331 Cairn Key and A Dealers Series (November, 1995) This Kindred Spirits statue by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe was created to honor Cair Studio’s newest friends, our Japanese Collectors. Tom and Tim have used their names, with the traditional Japanese suffix, for their sculpted creations. Following the Asian zodiac system, 1996 is the Year of the Mouse. The mouse is admired as a hardy little being who is able to prosper in any circumstance. People born in the Year of the Mouse are usually cheerful, optimistic, and talented in many fields. This tiny mouse has been celebrating New Year’s Eve and is still in his sake cup. Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, but this cup holds only rice. However, the Gnome has a real treat hidden behind his back. The morsel of cheese for his small friend is symbolic of the new year – the best is yet to come! The statue is decorated with a 100 yen coin and the Japanese character for “Congratulations,” the traditional New Year’s greeting. May the Year of the Mouse bring you peace, prosperity and happiness!

TURNABOUT #6317 (November, 1994) Here’s a new tur on the old game of Leap Frog. The Woodspirit was a little nervous to have the frog leap over him, but turnabout is fair play, so he removed his hat and hunkered down. The frog got a running start – one, two, three, ribbet! and cleared the Woodspirit’s bald pate with a flawless jump. Leaping lizards, this is fun! These two friends join the other leap frogging duos who find this game uplifting – Jumping Jack, Hop Tuit and Leap Frog. This addition to the Kindred Spirits Collection has two coins: a play money token and, to celebrate this unique style of transportation, a New York City subway token. Together they make “fare play.” If you are a kindred spirit with the little people and their animal neighbors, you’ll be able to find three faces hidden in the Woodspirit’s beard.

TURN OF THE CENTURY #6369 This is a Century spinning wheel for the Centuries. Our gnome, Centurion, has been in charge of turning the wheel one hundred times. The little duckling, Vanna, is having great fun, celebrating the conclusion of the last spin of the 20th Century. If this is a wheel of fortune, both Kindred Spirits, Vanna and Centurion, will have a rosy future. (Vanna was worried she might want to “duck’ the 21st Century) The new millennium promises a healthy environment where mankind and animals can live cooperatively. The first turn of the wheel was in 1900, and the harp on the Irish coin has been playing ever since. The 20th Century was such a spectacular one, we might as well get ready for another 100 wonderful years. After all, one good turn deserves another.

UPSIE DAISY #2502 Cairn Key and A Dealers Series (November, 1993) When Daisy the turtle stopped to smell the daisies, she tripped and fell head over heels. As she lay on the ground, with her house turned upside down, a helpful Woodspirit named Derek came down the path. Quickly sizing up the situation, this Good Samaritan fetched a small rhododendron stick and positioned it under Daisy’s hard shell. With one more good push he should have her back on her feet again and able to continue her enjoyment of the bright spring blossoms. Daisy and the other turtles often serve as “tractors” for the Woodspirits: with a length of twine around their shells they are able to pull up tiny saplings and relocate medium-sized rocks. But now, thanks to a new friend, it’s Daisy’s turn to be on the receiving end of a good deed. Both animals and Woodspirits alike love flowers. Among the Woodspirits, roses are the favorites of J.P. and Violet, while Mum loves chrysanthemums and Ava adores tulips. The rabbits Pansy and Scarlett share Daisy’s love of wildflowers, but a journey across the yard is especially precarious for a small, slow-moving turtle. Just ask Daisy’s turtle friend Todd, who undertakes many a risky expedition to reach a new patch of wild strawberries.

VET #6302 (August, 1992)

This hare fell in mud oh so yucky.

When unstuck he still wasn’t plucky.

He let the Vet set it 

And wet it and pet it 

And now his rabbit foot’s lucky.

The real luck is that the rabbit happened upon this helpful vet, who knows that an injured or sick animal needs medical attention and love in equal measures. The Irish coin shows a hare, in honor of the patient. “Kindred Spirits” is the name of the new series of collaborative artworks by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe. Not only are the Woodspirits and animals who live in the natural world kindred spirits, but so are the two artists who created “Vet.” 

WE’RE HEAR FOR YOU #6300 Special Commission (July, 1992) In the forest, a little girl and a curious rabbit are learning how easy it is to “make” friends. Wanda is teaching the American Sign Language sign for “friend,” where the index fingers are hooked right over left and then quickly reversed. My “Friendly” Woodspirit can show you the second step, for it always takes two to be friends. The rabbit, sculpted by Timothy Wolfe, has large ears and acute hearing, but knows there are many ways to communicate. His coin from Zimbabwe depicts a rabbit, and Wanda’s Mexican coin has an ear of corn, with kernels of corn dotting the base. Her dress is decorated with small Q’s for Quota International, Inc., an organization of professional women dedicated to the ideals of unselfishness, sharing, understanding, friendship, and service. Quota was founded in 1919 by Wanda Frey Joiner, and one of its major programs is service to the hearing-impaired. Quota’s motto is “we share” and my little Wanda shares her time with others less fortunate. Like Wanda Frey Joiner, she listens with her heart.

WISE AND WONDERFUL #6321 Special Commission (May, 1995) This statue takes its name from the beloved hymn written by Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848: “All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful: The Lord God made them all.” The professor is a wise old owl of a fellow. The student is not particularly young, but he has a youthful enthusiasm for the world of knowledge and the wonder of new ideas. What is the professor’s most important lesson? It is that there is a teacher in each of us, and that the path of learning is truly an open book for all who choose it. In honor of Davidson College (Dr. Clark’s alma mater), the book displays the college motto, which translates as “Let learning be cherished where liberty has arisen.” The coin pictures Davidson’s most illustrious alumnus, President Woodrow Wilson, whose nickname was “The Professor.” Tom Clark (a former professor) has played a trick on this student by adding some whimsical entries to the definition of “night owl.” I think the Woodspirit will have the last laugh – he has owl prints on the soles of his boots, and he’s holding a diploma, the reward for being a night owl! A Kindred Spirits artwork by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe, “Wise and Wonderful” is a companion statue to “Bright and Beautiful” and “Great and Small” Together these three Kindred Spirits artworks celebrate the hymn’s last line: “How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.”