Artist uses solar power to draw intricate patterns into animal skulls

While most artists use paintbrush, pen or pencil to create beautiful illustrations, Damien Noll wields his magnifying glass to etch elaborate designs on animal skulls and bones. His beautiful pyrography creations are born out of patience as he carefully applies solar heat on his 'canvas'.

Damien is originally from the US, but now lives in France. His work reminds me so much of another artist I previously featured, Jordan Mang-osan. To my surprise, these two know each other! Both artists met through social media, keeping correspondence until Damien decided to travel to Benguet to meet Jordan. The Filipino artist also harnesses the power of the sun to produce portraits that depict the rich heritage and landscape of the Cordilleras, where he is from.

"Many of these skulls were processed by me from animals passed to me by local hunters in Southern France, Colorado, and Texas," Damien says. "In processing the animal skulls, one becomes intimate with these animals. I take them through the entire process, from life to death and back again. Sometimes along that way a hearty meal is the outcome."

The New Jersey native also makes sundrawn postcards, and you can see much more of his work on his website.