These people (who I don’t know) had their photo taken in front of this huge elk statue and it ended up on my FB page!
Of course, I was totally curious about the sculpture behind them… and the artist… And they told me! This statue is completely created from horse shoes by Oregon artist, Bud Thomas!

This photograph ended up on my FB page! Of course, I was curious about the statue! (Nice photo, isn’t it?!)
BUD THOMAS – HORSE SHOE ARTIST!
Of course, I found his website and FB page for us all!
I’m not sure if he just started or if he simply sells everything he has and therefore doesn’t really need a large inventory on his website or FB page… but most of the incredible pieces listed on his pages were sold. But, I bet if you contacted him, he could tell you exactly what he had or… what he could make for you!
I love his sweet descriptions of how he came to make the pieces and what they have meant to him. Very nice.
OTHER WORKS!
Here are some other works… most were sold but a few are still available.

This one is Ghost Horse. I love it! He wanted it to appear as if the horse was breaking out of the barn.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Contact and Pricing (FROM THE WEBSITE)
Each piece I create is unique. Not just the size and style but finishes also. Every time I create a new piece I learn something new as I am constantly experimenting with new techniques for construction as well as the finish. Some folks like a lot of shine and luster and some like the look of natural patina.
To be honest I wished I could keep all of my sculptures as with all of the time spent creating them I know every shoe I have welded to bring them to life. Originally I never thought about selling any of them but so many people have shared with me how much they love them also.
Everyday people stop by the shop to look at the sculptures and take pictures. They eventually make their way and ask the big question, “how much are they”? It’s always a difficult question for me to answer because how much time I put into each piece.
Also talking with so many people as my art has become more and more popular I have learned that everyone like my art is unique. Some folks go right to the shiny and high gloss pieces and others like the rustic and natural look of the untreated horseshoes.
The work I enjoy sculpting the most is the bigger than life sized animals. With several hundred hours building them you get to know them (if you know what I mean). While I am working on them I can’t picture doing anything else.
Oh yeah sorry for rambling because I haven’t answered the question, “how much are they”?
Prices for the large pieces range from $5,000 – $12,000 depending on several factors. Obviously size and level of detail are important but also consider the finish. Most of my pieces have been cleaned, sandblasted, heat treated and powder coated which runs the cost up but preserves the sculpture when used outdoors.
Last month I had a client who had a close friend that just lost her beloved Labrador “Max” and he asked if I would consider making a replica of Max. I agreed to try. Seeing how happy they were when they picked him up made me realize that a lot of people are interested in owning one of my art pieces but in today’s economy they more afford something in the $2,500 – $5,000 range.
Since I published Max on Facebook (I promise I’ll post a few pictures here) I have created quite a bit of interest so it looks like in addition to the big stuff I’ll be making more medium life size pieces also.
If you would like more information or pricing on any of my work please call or email me.
email: bud@budthomas.com
Phone: 541-740-0641
AND, OF COURSE, WITH HIS HORSE….
Click here for webpage, click here for Facebook!
ALL PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE BUCKET FUND!
Mama Tess Saddle/Bridle charm!! Only $25!
Sterling silver MT “Stand in the Light” pendant on large lobster clasp! Perfect for anything… jewelry, keychain, tack, dog collar…! Protection wherever you go!

Bernadette: You emailed the blogger, not the company you wanted. Please go back to that particular
article and click on the various links to find the artist.
I would like to order ur Horse head made w chains. I need the dimensions, cost I cannot seem to get to the sight to order. Thks.
B Wolf, 605-718-4788. Rapid City, SD