Artist’s statement

My abstract carved wood sculptures embrace the juxtaposition of confinement and freedom, the interaction of negative and positive space, and contemplate the complexity of human relationships. My practice is informed by my related skills in woodworking, fine furniture making, and welding, as well as my interests in mythology, archeology, architecture, and geology. The challenge of reaching a resolution between nature and instinct often guides my work, as opposed to more formal reasoning. The resolution is usually a question of balance and simplicity.

I create sensuous, tactile forms evocative of organic growth, human emotions and interactions, and feelings of caring. The suggestion of a figure, a geometrical projection, a ratio, an archetypal form—each can serve as the inspiration for a sculpture. I begin by sketching an idea and selecting the wood to best express that idea, with the understanding that the wood and the artist may have to reach a compromise. Using a variety of North American hardwoods such as walnut, cherry, apple, and butternut, I let the wood speak to me as I carve, gouge, and chisel away, coaxing the grain and imperfections to uncover the inherent allure of each wood species. The sculptures that emerge contrast sharp angles and rounded edges, and often feature negative space in the form of circular portals. I then painstakingly sand and finish each piece, fine-tuning the curves and edges until they are smooth enough to invite touch and reveal a different aspect from all angles.