John Dekker
Self trained sculptor after retiring as College Professor. I began drawing and painting in my early years, I was encouraged and championed in high school by my professional artist teachers. I was allowed the privilege of developing my own unique style.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
The intent behind my work is through a meditation with nature, I look to communicate to the viewer the resplendent beauty, drama, and intrigue of the natural world. I work in both watercolour and ink, as well as individual solid log sculptures. For my tools, I gravitate toward chainsaws for rough body work and chisels and sanding for refining the details. Through these tools, I found the process of creating a piece as important to me as the finished work itself. This is why I love to keep remnants of the log exterior untouched to juxtapose with the refinement and care of the worked areas. I enjoy creating moments of negative space because this allows the work to change context depending on where the pieces are situated…sometimes they live in the wilderness surrounded by their natural habitat, other times they belong inside a home and bring the outdoors in.
I wish to present the beauty, complexity, and intricate tenderness that I observe from nature. I have always had a questioning mind. My internal dialogue inundating me with questions about the world we live in led me to study physics and philosophy, and investigate it emotionally in my art. My career in physics and philosophy allowed me expand my comprehension of the known world, which I utilize every day and thus, in every piece that I create. I hope my work brings happiness and wonder.
Self trained sculptor after retiring as College Professor. I began drawing and painting in my early years, I was encouraged and championed in high school by my professional artist teachers. I was allowed the privilege of developing my own unique style.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
The intent behind my work is through a meditation with nature, I look to communicate to the viewer the resplendent beauty, drama, and intrigue of the natural world. I work in both watercolour and ink, as well as individual solid log sculptures. For my tools, I gravitate toward chainsaws for rough body work and chisels and sanding for refining the details. Through these tools, I found the process of creating a piece as important to me as the finished work itself. This is why I love to keep remnants of the log exterior untouched to juxtapose with the refinement and care of the worked areas. I enjoy creating moments of negative space because this allows the work to change context depending on where the pieces are situated…sometimes they live in the wilderness surrounded by their natural habitat, other times they belong inside a home and bring the outdoors in.
I wish to present the beauty, complexity, and intricate tenderness that I observe from nature. I have always had a questioning mind. My internal dialogue inundating me with questions about the world we live in led me to study physics and philosophy, and investigate it emotionally in my art. My career in physics and philosophy allowed me expand my comprehension of the known world, which I utilize every day and thus, in every piece that I create. I hope my work brings happiness and wonder.
