December, 2002

Assembled Steel Construction:“The Consort”
Analutikos Series I, Spring 2002

Analutikos is the Greek origin of the word “analytic,” which is defined as “reasoning or acting from a perception of the parts and interrelations of a subject.” “The Consort” is the third piece in a continuing series in steel that analyses the origins of Western cultural heritage as relevant to modern existence. The first piece in Series I, “Road to Delphi,” makes reference to the mountainous terrain and rugged nature of the area surrounding Athena’s Temple at Delphi, Greece, and the circuitous search for self and our relationship with nature. The second piece, “Athena’s Chariot” speaks to the strength and intellectual freedom we associate with the world’s first democracy. “The Consort” recognizes the timelessness, competitiveness, complexity and inspirational nature of intimate human relations.

Welding Steel: Constructing in metal has long been a dream of mine - the spark, the fire, the danger of welding links us to the earliest artisans whose tools were used to manifest vision and enhance survival. Working in steel allows me to build a piece that is less mortal than painting. For me, “The Consort” has multiple avenues of entrance, suggesting ambiguity and permanence in a form larger than myself.

In the Analutikos Series I was determined to allow the materials to define the form. I find this practice nourishing to the development of a creative relationship between my unconsciousness and the subsequent spirit of the sculpture. Forming this type of ongoing conversation with the materials allows me to put aside ego in order for the sculpture to develop a full and separate presence.