That's Clever! Episode HCLVR-129 Elizabeth Bonura reveals the process for her polymer clay sculpture in San Antonio, Texas.

 

In the summer of 2005, HGTV came to San Antonio and filmed me sculpting!  I created a portrait sculpture of my husband holding my son (who was only a few months old at the time)  It was an amazing experience!  

Although the film crew was at my house for over 6 hours, the segment only lasted about 5 minutes.  Sculpting in front of the camera was a challenge because I had to keep talking as I was sculpting describing what I was doing. I had to say things over and over again because I wasn't allowed to say "you" and in "next you add the nose to the face."   I had to say "next I add the nose to the face..." 

 

Another challenge I faced during the filming was my 3 month old son wouldn't take the bottle. He only wanted to nurse and would cry for me causing us to have to break often.  My poor husband kept having to walk him around the block and try to distract him.  Finally, the director said "hey, it's OK.  We can make it part of the show... you have to stop sculpting to take care of your baby"  So true!  

 

I am very please with how the episode turned out.  As one of my fellow guild members said "At least they didn't make you look stupid!"  I had a wonderful time and I would do it again - although I don't think my husband would agree!

 

If you are interested in seeing a clip from the show check out the video clip from when "Great Day, SA!" interviewed me. You can also see pictures of the process and read the steps to create a portrait sculpture (very similar to creating a cake topper) on HGTV's website .