that's awesome that you found such a strong interest in stone sculpting. I always wanted to do that myself. There is stil no greater reward than creating something with your own hands. But remember - Just you and the hammer and the chisel and a whiny punk could be a beautiful thing too!
Truthfully i am more interested in 3D for manufacture than i have ever been for 3D art. But as long as doing 3D design keeps the money coming in, I plan to keep doing it! And still i find new ways to enjoy it
shorty