Isaac Smith was born April 27, 1944, in Winnsboro, LA, and died December 24, 2016, in Dallas, TX.

After injuries and layoffs from a variety of jobs, Isaac despaired that his future was bleak. During an especially depressing time, Isaac believed that God visited him, and encouraged him to become a woodcarver.

From an early age, Issac had been keenly interested in animal forms and structures, and now his observations began to give shape to a variety of creatures. His vision was unique, and often his animals were colors not usually found in nature. Polka dots were prominent, and over-sized feet became an amusing trademark.

Smith’s work now resides in many private collections, including that of the former president, George ...