The Realistic Equine Sculpture Society (RESS) is pleased to announce the winning sculptor in the 2003 RESS Sculpture Contest, Tibbi Searcher of Post Falls, ID. Searcher's creation, entitled "Let Fly," is approximately 7-1/2 inches tall. "I really enjoy sculpting foals, and the action of a long-legged baby kicking up created an interesting composition," says Searcher.

The Let Fly edition was closed with a total of 42 pieces cast and is sold out.

---

Searcher has been casting her sculptures in bronze since 1989. Her work has been commissioned by Lockheed Martin's "Skunk Works" division, the University of Washington, and several private individuals. She recently became interested in producing her sculptures in resin for sale to model horse and art collectors when she learned about the RESS annual sculpture contest. "When I discovered the contest, I was thrilled! At the time, the deadline was only a month away and 'Let Fly' was still in the early stages," says Searcher. "I finished her just in time." Searcher plans to produce more sculptures in resin as time permits.

"Let Fly" was unanimously chosen as the winner of the contest by the judging panel, comprised of the RESS president, secretary, membership administrator, and treasurer. Each piece was presented to the judges without identification to ensure fair judging. The winning sculpture is cast in polyurethane resin.