Statement
As a direct carver I am inspired by natural pieces of wood and stone. The materials become the subject matter as I cut through layers searching for a form to complement their unique characteristics. I work a piece until I find a balanced abstract idea. This balance is often created with lyrical lines and mobius planes that open up the materials so they can breath and move. I want the forms to have a presence that transcends a space and invites the viewer into a visual meditation.
Bio
Growing up in the Palouse hills of rural Eastern Washington, John was influenced by natures wide open spaces. The seemingly endless rolling slopes of windswept soil, accented by the tool marks of agriculture, made an early impression on his sense of line, design, color and space. Those early memories formed the horizon line for his journey through life and art.
In 2006 John graduated with a fine arts degree from Western Washington University with a focus on painting. He also studied classical guitar and graphic design. During college he worked as the lead designer for a fabrication and design company and continued that profession until 2009 when he moved to Maui, Hawaii working as a freelance designer and sign maker.
In 2012 he met master sculptor Bruce Turnbull who inspired him to try sculpture. It was through sculpture that John found his passion as an artist. After a few years of honing his craft John shared his work in galleries and juried exhibitions throughout the state. He completed private commissions and had his work purchased for the permanent collection by the State of Hawaii.
John and his wife moved back to the Pacific Northwest in 2019 where he continues exploring and expanding his craft.