For the past six years, Carmen Rudman has been creating intricate works of art on mostly, South African wildlife skulls.
Living on their family ranch, Blaauwkrantz, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, a well-known hunting destination, and with her background in art, jewellery making and beadwork, the idea of skull art was born. With exclusive access to international hunting clients and their trophies, her hobby soon turned into a profession and her commissioned work now hangs in homes across the globe.
Various mediums are used and any design is possible, from replicating the animal’s intrinsic facial markings, traditional African tribal patterns, and camouflage to hand painted flags. However, her beaded skulls, using Czech, Japanese and Mayuki beads with semi-precious gemstone cabochons as proverbial headstones, are most sought after, with immaculate attention to detail ensuring a unique, one–of–a–kind creation. Decorated kudu horn inners are also popular and a beaded jewellery range is in the works.
Skulls are cleaned to taxidermy standards and there are many available species to choose from or clients can have their own trophies decorated. These are then sent via a taxidermist or export agent.
Contact Carmen for commissions and available pieces.
Email carmen.rudman@gmail.com