STATEMENT
Too often fine art is perceived as taking itself too seriously. It has an unfortunate reputation for alienating those who can’t or won’t take the time to search for, or simply be open to, an idea. I try to help people overcome this in two ways – direct interaction and humor.
I find it unfortunate that art, like red buttons and strange machines, tend to be objects that aren’t meant to be touched. My art requires people to rebel against that mindset in order to deal with the uncertainty of the question: “What will happen if I touch this?”
Like most machines whose purpose is only fulfilled when it’s in operation, the sculpture is not complete unless the viewer is engaged and incorporated into its purpose.
BIO
While studying in Germany after high school, he realized a career in mechanical engineering was not where his passions lied. Upon returning to the US one year later, he began studying fine arts and eventually found sculpture to be the most gratifying outlet for his ideas.
In college he began putting his engineering influences to work creating interactive and kinetic sculptures. Using primarily welded and fabricated steel along with electric components and humor a body of work referred to as “Tangible Sarcasm” emerged. With this work he hopes to continue challenging the notion that art isn’t funny or fun and at the same time intriguing.
In 2008, he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Eastern Michigan University.
RECENT EXHIBITIONS
- [2012] "Le Pop" | selected group exhibition | 101 N. Main (pop-up), Ann Arbor, MI (ongoing: clxart.com)
- [2011] "Food for Thought" | group exhibition | Gallery Project, Ann Arbor, MI
- [2011] "ad astra per aspera" | selected group exhibition | Phoenix Center, Ann Arbor, MI
- [2011] "Gold" | group exhibition | Dreamland Theater, Ypsilanti, MI
- [2010] "What's So Funny" | group exhibition | Gallery Project, Ann Arbor, MI
- [2010] "Faux Real" | group exhibition | Gallery Project, Ann Arbor, MI
- [2010] "Red" | group exhibition | pop-up gallery, Jackson, MI
- [2009] "2nd Sculpture Biennial | group exhibition | Downtown Brighton, MI
- [2008] "Tangible Sarcasm" | solo exhibition | EMU Student Center Gallery, Ypsilanti, MI
