Notes on Rob Paulette's Cave-Digging Journey

Introduction

• Rob Paulette, 65 years old, has been digging caves for 25 years.
• Started at the age of 39, considering himself a late bloomer.
• Focused on self-learning and personal exploration rather than formal education.

Purpose of Cave-Digging

• Aims to create transformative spaces that provoke deep emotional responses.
• Sees his work as a celebration, using aesthetics as a tool for transformation.
• Often feels like an archaeologist uncovering existing forms rather than solely creating new ones.

Techniques and Tools

• Primarily uses hand tools: shovels, scrapers, wheelbarrows.
• No heavy machinery; prefers traditional methods, including mirrors for visibility.
• Works independently, with an emphasis on safety and structural integrity.

Material and Location

• Works with soft sandstone that allows for quick and effective sculpting.
• Believes this material is unique to northern New Mexico and creates opportunities for sculptural work.
• Initially had fears about the safety of the digging process, even writing an apology note for potential rescuers.

Inspirations and Influences

• Inspired by ancient practices where digging was a spiritual act.
• Draws parallels between his work and the work of historical artists and craftsmen.

Personal Experiences and Challenges

• His obsession with the work often leads to neglecting other responsibilities.
• Experiences challenges in communication with clients regarding visions for cave projects.
• Worked on a cave for friends during a difficult time, which created emotional complexity.

Cave Projects

• Liz and Shell's Cave: Significant project that took over two years instead of the planned two months.
  • Liz was undergoing cancer treatment, adding emotional weight to the project.
  • Rob's creative process was sometimes at odds with the clients' expectations.
• Christina's Cave: Faced disagreements over the design.
  • Rob preferred artistic freedom while Christina wanted to guide the process.

Artistic Philosophy

• Describes his caves as works of art to be experienced, not just admired.
• Aims to create spaces that foster personal insights and emotional breakthroughs.
• Feels that his work is often misunderstood, leading to challenges in client relationships.

Structural Failures and Learning

• Experienced a major cave-in that caused a halt to his current project.
• This failure prompted Rob to reassess his approach and look for new sites.
• Despite setbacks, he remains resilient and optimistic about future projects.

Future Aspirations

• Expresses a desire to create a final significant cave project (Magnum Opus).
• Acknowledges the finite time left to work independently and creatively.
• Emphasizes a commitment to continue exploring and pushing the boundaries of his craft.