How do artists use wood grain to suggest movement in cedar animal sculptures?

Artists harness the natural patterns of cedar wood grain to infuse life and motion into animal sculptures. By carefully selecting wood with flowing or swirling grain, they create the illusion of fur, feathers, or muscle movement. The grain's direction can mimic the flow of an animal's body, such as the curve of a running deer's legs or the sweep of a bird's wings. Strategic carving techniques, like following the grain for smooth lines or contrasting it for texture, further enhance the dynamic effect. This interplay between material and craftsmanship transforms static wood into vibrant, lifelike art.