Stella, North Carolina, circa 2015, two piece decoy from carved wood, branded J. TALTON on bottom, with hand constructed display box from vintage heart pine, leather strap, iron tacks, two WINCHESTER brass shells, cotton cloth.

Height 25 in.

Talton is a passionate waterfowler and skilled carver who crafts traditional decoys rooted in the timeless methods of Core Sound. His carving journey began with a love for shaping surfboards and evolved into creating decoys inspired by the elegant simplicity of working birds from the coastal areas of North Carolina to Long Island. Jerry meticulously paints each decoy with high-quality oils, ensuring authenticity and charm. Beyond ducks, he carves shorebirds, fish, and occasional folk-inspired pieces, often incorporating reclaimed materials from local marshes and historic sites to add unique character. A Board member of the Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild, Jerry’s work is highly valued in collections and hunting rigs across the U.S.

2017 Artist in Residence, Garden and Gun, Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, SC.
2016 Made in the South Award Winner, Garden and Gun Magazine.

This root head heron was made in the old style of Core Sound makers. The body features old copper pinning. The head is removable from the body and the decoy fits neatly in the carrying case crafted from vintage heart pine.

Original.