Lately I have been considering my approach to sculpting the figure and working with clay in general. i thought I would examine some of the work I like that has the qualities that I find exciting and attractive. Theses works by Peter Voulkos, Stephen De Staebler, and Wanxin Zahng demonstrate the freedom, and expressive qualites that inspire me.
Kevin, I did not realize that Wanxin Zahng's figures were so large till I started to research his work.... ( I am particularly fond of his 'red series') the large figures are also very beautiful. I remember that you were talking about going larger and another "a-ha" moment happened for me in regards to your work. Since I have been wanting to "go larger" in my paintings...we have been discussing in my committee meetings that when you shift in size (from small to large to xxlarge etc) that it gives an entire new set of issues etc to consider and solve, but (here is the good part-the a ha moment)the mark(s) you begin to make start to become a part of you...meaning the energy that you make ...the surface really changes! (which I think in a very very good way!) dunno if this help but...you know the saying....go big or go home! happy creating.
ReplyDeletewhat has always amazed me about Wanxin Zahng sculptures-there is a speed and energy in his work but it feels almost weightless. His control of the material is obvious-gravity is not winning!
ReplyDeleteKevin, I remember when I was there you talking about how you wanted a looseness to your figures, and I thought they were pretty loose. But then when I look at these and scroll down to your work, your work looks so much tighter in comparison. I don't know if it is the abstraction in this work or the surface, but I think if you take some time to really look into it and reflect on the work you should find your solution!
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