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Visiting Faculty 2006-07 Sculpture |
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Richard Herzogclick image to enlarge
As a child growing up I had no interest in reading fantasy or science-fiction books- a great contrast to the rest of my family. I did however; devour all the biographical books and articles I could find. I especially like reading about inventors, explores and scientists. My fascination was more than about their accomplishments; it was an appreciation for their great determination. Many times these people placed all they had in what they believed, they were willing to take chances, and they were willing to risk their lives. They gave me a glimpse as to the possibilities of what was possible in the world. That anything could be accomplished if you had the determination, drive and believed in yourself. My entire family is rooted in the hard sciences physics, chemistry and mathematics. The explanation of the world, of what exists and how it works drives them to explore and learn. They are happy in this never-ending journey always traveling down new paths looking for answers. For me it is not to explain the world, but to put the world into a different context. I examine parts of society and nature trying to bring awareness to these elements. In hopes of altering the viewer’s perceptions, make them look at things a bit different and consider the world they live in. As an artist I do not have the answers, I feel my role is more of being an activist. That said though I do not create work with a political agenda nor have a politically motivated view. My part is actively bringing awareness to the society in which we live and to the subjects, objects and ideas that permeate our culture in a subordinate or subversive manner. My current work is exploring botanical forms, the lack of interaction between man and nature and our disconnection from this environment. These sculptures and installations talk about the organization and chaotic nature natural and man-made forms. I look at how things are composed of many parts and abstract their elements keeping true to its inherit qualities. Some are more organic in overall form as if growing or flowing from group to group, mimicking ivy or spring flowers sprouting here and there. All a combination of a systematic organization of natural forms possessing a chaotic multi-layered visual effect mimicking our world, dominated by its rapid pace and over stimulation. |
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