CARVING WATER

Ever since the tsunami that ravaged Banda Ache in 2004, I haves been obsessed with the paradox of water as sustainer of life and agent of destruction.  This led me to carve abstract interpretations of tsunami waves, ice moulins and even the threat posed by ocean acidification on pteropods, microscopic organisms at the bottom of the marine food web.

These water themed sculptures are simply called WAVE FORMS. They were exhibited during Art Basel Miami, December 3-6, 2015, at Jalan jalan in the Design District The sculptures are based on the rolling circularity of waves and the contradictions inherent in the beauty that can be found in the energy of storm-tossed seas. In carving this work, my intention was not to depict what agitated waters look like. Rather, it was to convey my emotional response to an element that soothes, nourishes and occasionally terrifies.

The small stainless steel sculptures are the essential shapes I imagine when out in the ocean in a small boat in heavy weather. The large painted bronzes are my interpretations of the crashing energy of ocean surf. Both reflect an abiding love of the sea tempered by fear.