Joe Wheaton

DNA: Minimal Abstract Three Dimensional Dark Metal Wall Sculpture

2019

Minimalist, abstract geometric standing sculpture in dark brown oxidized steel "Some Guy #2" by Joe Wheaton, made in 2005 oxidized steel, 80 x 17.5 x 15 inches Freestanding sculpture...

Minimalist, abstract geometric wall sculpture in dark oxidized metal We Were Never Strangers, made by Joe Wheaton in 2019 30 x 19 x 3.5 inches, oxidized stainless steel Hangs on a French cleat Lightweight, weighs about 5 lbs. Signed, verso Joe Wheaton’s unique sculptural designs welded from dark, oxidized brass or brilliant silver steel showcase a contradictory set of relationships; “beautiful yet menacing, “threatening yet delicate” as described by the artist. Wheaton builds his metal compositions using a language of strokes and patterns. Geometric spears, disks and quadrangles alternate with wispy, sharp edged lines that trail off quietly to an undefined point. This visual sweep can be likened to the art of calligraphy, echoing the artist’s interest in early Asian arts and ceramics, as well as printmaking. This exhibit will include several of Wheaton’s large and small wall sculptures...

Abstract, minimalist three dimensional wall sculpture in dark metal (oxidized steel) "The Dignity of Hope" by Joe Wheaton, made in 2019 37 x 13 x 2.5 inches, oxidized steel Lightweig...

Minimalist, abstract three dimensional wall sculpture in gold leaf "Shrine of Dancers", by Japanese born artist, Dai Ban, in 2018 52 x 16 x 6 inches Precision board, acrylic and gol...

Minimalist, abstract three dimensional wall sculpture in dark oxidized metal Temptation Was an Ally, made by Joe Wheaton in 2019 42 x 16 x 7 inc...

Mid-Century Modern abstract sculpture of a white painted abstract geometric wooden object "Motherlode" by Leon Smith, c. 2007 Acrylic painted wood with wood base 10 x 9 x 2 inches This small, mid-century modern style abstract sculpture made of white painted wood is perfectly suited for a tabletop, pedestal, or mantle piece and recalls designs associated with the Post Modern movement. Curved pieces of white painted wood pair elegantly with a natural wood base. The geometric shape is able to rotate around the base, inviting interesting shadows at every angle. Artist Statement: Why I construct sculptures is somewhat of a mystery to me. I suspect, in some ways, it is a continuation of childhood play, where invention, improvisation and often a sense of mischief, are a key. The simple abstract shapes that I choose to work with give me the greatest freedom to manipulate and discover new forms without being bound by specific representational imagery. The opposing qualities of form are what engage me most. Balance vs. precariousness, stability vs. movement, and the organic vs. the inorganic. I play with these elements until another dimension appears and until the form is pleasing to me. I'm partial to the double take, the paradox, but only if the work's formal qualities con sustain interest and delight over a long period of time. About the artist: Born in Australia, it was Smith's first career as a dentist that taught him to make carvings and moldings. His sense of humor and that of his wife, Elaine, are at the epicenter of Smith's playful designs and titles. Riffing on simple, abstract shapes gives him the freedom to discover new forms and ideas. "The opposing qualities of form are what engage me most. Balance versus precariousness, stability versus movement, and the organic versus the inorganic. I'm partial to the double take, the paradox, but only if the work's formal qualities can sustain interest and delight over a long period of time. Smith's childlike energy knows no bounds, producing work that is at once amusing and sophisticated. Sure, he's 83 years old, but hold on tight when he drives you around in his golf cart...

I grew up in the high mountain desert of Northern New Mexico the son of an artist and an Inventor/engineer. My childhood was filled with amazement and curiosity which I have worked h...

I grew up in the high mountain desert of Northern New Mexico the son of an artist and an Inventor/engineer. My childhood was filled with amazement and curiosity which I have worked h...

I grew up in the high mountain desert of Northern New Mexico the son of an artist and an Inventor/engineer. My childhood was filled with amazement and curiosity which I have worked h...

Bloom No. 4 from the Bloom Series by Norman Mooney Mirror-polished stainless steel, birch plywood base Inspired by the work of the 19th century biologist Ernst Haeckel and his study...

"Sisyphean Circle (homage to Major Taylor)" by John Van Alstine Slate, pigmented and sealed steel "Major Taylor's legacy lies in his willingness to chall...

"Sisyphean Circle (diagonally down)" by John Van Alstine Slate, pigmented and sealed steel The sculpture of John Van Alstine beautifully, and powerfully, balances the union of stone...