Whether working in steatite alone or a set of contrasting stones such as black soapstone and limestone, Braun seeks to allow the natural beauty of the stone to reveal itself while he explores the balance between natural, polished and textured surfaces. "I feel that sculpture is about creating form in which the artist exhibits control, balance and mystery,” Braun says. “I enjoy working in the abstract because it allows me the freedom to explore the material - it offers the opportunity to highlight the natural beauty of the stone in unique ways.”