"Twisted Tree": A turn with nature

 Nature has a way of teaching us resilience, and the "Twisted Tree" sculpture embodies this lesson beautifully. Standing at an impressive 12 feet tall, this piece is a striking blend of mild steel, powder coat, fused glass, and solar lights, creating a visual narrative that speaks to both the challenges of life and the beauty of the natural world.

The twisted tree is not just a sculpture; it’s a metaphor for the journey we all navigate. Much like a tree that has endured harsh weather, bending and twisting over time, this artwork reflects the setbacks and triumphs that shape our lives. The spiral trunk serves as a reminder that resilience can emerge from adversity, a theme that resonates deeply in today’s world.

The interplay of glass and steel in this piece also highlights pressing environmental issues, particularly the challenges of climate change affecting water resources in the West. The vibrant colors of the fused glass evoke the beauty of nature while simultaneously advocating for its preservation. This duality invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment and the importance of sustainability.

Creating "Twisted Tree" involved a meticulous process, including multiple kiln firings to achieve the perfect fusion of glass. Each layer tells a story, capturing the essence of the Western American landscape and its ever-changing climate. The integration of solar lights adds a magical touch, illuminating the piece at night and inviting contemplation.

Art is not merely decoration; it’s a conversation starter, a way to connect with our surroundings and each other. This sculpture stands as a testament to the power of creativity and the stories that art can tell. 

For those interested in bringing a piece of this narrative into their own space, "Twisted Tree" is available for viewing and purchase. It’s more than just a sculpture; it’s an opportunity to support an artist’s journey and to engage with the themes of nature and resilience.

Explore the beauty of "Twisted Tree" and let it inspire your own reflections on life and the environment

 

Ocotillo Bone Marrow Nearing Completion

 In the heart of the desert, where the sun kisses the earth and the wind whispers through the canyons, a new sculpture emerges—"Ocotillo Bone Marrow." This striking piece stands over 10 feet tall, a testament to the beauty and resilience of the Ocotillo cactus, a symbol of life in arid landscapes.

  

Crafted from mild steel, this sculpture is not just a visual marvel; it’s a dynamic experience. The two figures, mirroring each other, invite viewers to engage with their surroundings. As one walks around the piece, it unfolds like the gentle sway of grass in the breeze, revealing layers of intricate design and craftsmanship. 

The interior and exterior of the sculpture are transformed through the addition of fused glass orbs, each one a vibrant splash of color reminiscent of growth and water—elements so vital to life in the West. These orbs, with their oozing hues, create a dialogue between the steel and glass, merging the organic with the industrial. 

 

The base plate is meticulously designed to allow the figures to quiver, responding to the slightest touch or movement in the environment. This kinetic aspect adds a layer of interactivity, inviting viewers to not just observe but to participate in the artwork’s life.

Art is a reflection of the world around us, and "Ocotillo Bone Marrow" embodies the delicate balance of nature and human creativity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of water conservation and environmental consciousness, themes that resonate deeply in the Western American landscape.

This sculpture is more than just a piece of art; it’s a story waiting to be told. It invites you to explore, to reflect, and to connect with the natural world. 

For those interested in bringing a piece of this journey into their own space, "Ocotillo Bone Marrow" is available for viewing and purchase. Each piece is a unique expression of artistry, crafted with care and intention. 

Embrace the beauty of nature and art—discover more about this sculpture and others in the collection! 

Ocotillo’s bone marrow

 The sculpture dares to share Nature’s awkwardness and harsh conditions for living. Sharing the sculpture’s progress. 

First Sign of Spring II

 I so very pleased to announce the installation of a commission at a private home in Greenwood Village. “First Sign of Spring II” is smaller than the original one and has a different set of colors.

 The sculpture located in an intimate garden setting surrounded by large Spruce trees. As the sun passes through the day, little slivers of light pass through the glass forms and shine brightly. Bright enough you would think I installed electricity. The glass creates refractions as it passes through the many molded surfaces and colors.

Enjoy the images! I expect to continue building artwork along this series. It is immensely rewarding to consider natural light as a sculptural medium.

 

Contact artist@chinacatsunflower.net for more details.

Art Garage Day

 Installed “Rolling Dancing Moon” at Art Garage in Denver. Gave an impromptu artist talk about sculpture, welding and electricity. Art Garage is a wonderful creative space for our neighborhood of Park Hill. 

Contact artist@chinacatsunflower.net for more details.

Raspberry Floricane in Salida, Colorado

 “Raspberry Floricane”

I started growing raspberry bushes in my garden a couple of years ago. Read all the instructions of how to plant, place and care for the new shoots. I choose a location that was on my irrigation line, sunny but sheltered from winter winds. My chickens nap behind them in between the canes and the picket fence. They make holes in the soft dirt to dust bathe.

I was walking through the canes, examining their progress when I noticed a cane had fallen to the ground and appeared to be buried. My immediate reaction was to pull the cane out of the ground and weave it back into the trellis. What I extracted was a thick bulbous end with tiny knobs randomly poking out. What an interesting shape!

I again looked up the details of growing raspberries. The awkward strange form is called a “Floricane”. I decided it would make a fantastic sculpture.

The sculpture was purchased by a private collector in Salida, Colorado. It was installed in the beautifully landscaped backyard and outdoor living area. I always start to miss these creatures once they leave the studio. I wish I could negotiate “visitation” rights when the art goes to a private residence.

Contact artist@chinacatsunflower.net for more details.

Bold Journey: Meet Reven Marie Swanson

 I hope this story inspires artist to push forward and explore there passion

https://boldjourney.com/news/meet-reven-marie-swanson/

 

Meet Reven Marie Swanson

July 25, 2023

Contact artist@chinacatsunflower.net for more details.

Light, Steel Andy Color Comes Together

 

The sculpture for Lamar Station Crossing II is coming together in its final assembly. This will be a unique sculpture installation with many interactive elements.

Contact: artist@chinacatsunflower.net

“Dancing Light Sticks” soon to be a permanent installation!

 

The Town of Superior Art Commission in Colorado, made a recommendation to the Town’s Board to purchase the “Dancing Light Sticks”. This was a sculpture installation created as part of a pilot program for Town to introduce public art and an ArtWalk in 2021.

The sculpture is fabricated in stainless steel, fused glass hemispheres and solar powered lights. There are seven pieces approximately 7-9 feet tall. The collection will be moved to a new location and have a more permanent foundation. Currently, they are located near 1400 Coalton Road.