Conceived early in Richard MacDonald’s career, “The Flutist” was the catalyst for MacDonald’s first sculptural suite, the Joie de Vivre suite. This suite embodies Richard MacDonald’s personal philosophy of life - that it is to be lived with energy and joy, and that we should seize our own definition of the “Joy of Life” and live it. The use of the baroque spiral curve, the balance, and the warm-toned patina add to the strength and captivating quality of “The Flutist” has he invites us to join in his revelry.