Hugh Townley

'Untitled Spirit Place' is a nesting tabletop sculptor by American artist Hugh Townlely (1923-2008). Cut from red oak, this whimsical totem displays the artist's lifelong fascination...

Stained and polychromed, this sawn oak sculpture by American artist Hugh Townley (1923-2008) dates from 1957. Contrasting splashes of color flash through the ...

Chiseled and stained oak sculpture by American artist Hugh Townley (1923-2008). The spire shaped, finial form displays the artists lifelong love of wood and the abstracted form. Inci...

Hugh Townley (American, 1923 – 2008) Cloud Touching Decent, 1986 Walnut Titled, signed, and dated to the verso The Hugh Townley Abstract Walnut Sculpture "Cloud Touching Descent, " 1986 is a stunning wall sculpture that will add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space. The sculpture is crafted from high-quality walnut wood, which has been carefully carved and polished to create a unique and beautiful piece of art. The beautiful curves and lines of the sculpture are mesmerizing, and the rich walnut color adds warmth and depth to any space. The "Cloud Touching Descent" sculpture is a one-of-a-kind piece that is sure to become a conversation starter in any room. It is perfect for those who appreciate fine art and unique home décor. The sculpture can be easily mounted on the wall, making it a versatile piece that can be displayed in a variety of settings. Overall, the Hugh Townley Abstract Walnut Sculpture is a must-have for anyone who wants to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to their home. Its unique design and beautiful craftsmanship make it a true work of art that will be cherished for years to come. Measurements: 17 inches wide x 24 inches high x 3 inches deep. About the artist: Hugh Townley (1923-2008), the sculptor and printmaker, taught and made art from 1952 until his death on February 1, 2008. He worked primarily in wood, but also made monumental outdoor works in concrete. His sculptures -- reliefs and free-standing works -- are intricate constructions of interlocking shapes cut on a band-saw from many woods, both common and exotic. He used a recurring iconography of imaginative, often whimsical, forms, drawn from nature and his wide studies of Native American culture and Eastern spiritualism. The patterns of the saw, combined with the grain of the wood and natural imperfections, are integral to the design. On many later reliefs he used vibrant color, creating exuberantly original but instantly recognizable sculpture. His latest work was in plywood. He found unseen possibilities in its construction, exploiting the intricacy of design, of which he said: "The layering of the plywood with its black glue lines and rhythmical repeat patterns, plus its physical versatilities, glue-ability and handsome flatness intrigue me." In 1955, when he was 32, Townley's work was shown in MOMA's Penthouse Gallery, for New Talent. A critic wrote: "Wherever he has lived, Townley has exhibited. He is completely original, taking no slant from any other artist. The viewer is bound to respect his independence, admire his love of material, especially wood, and praise his excellent workmanship. Hugh Townley was born in Lafayette, Indiana and grew up in Madison, Wisconsin. At 19, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Europe. On his return in 1945, he enrolled in the Fine Arts program at the University of Wisconsin. One teacher suggested that he study with Ossip Zadkine in Paris, which he did. That experience, and his subsequent year working for the Marshall Plan in The Hague, gave him a valuable breadth of experience in the post-World War II art...