Gary and his wife MaryAnn, are both sculptors working independently as well as collaboratively. They live in a log house on 30 acres next to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Their studio and workshop are surrounded by woodland and native prairie.
Gary Carlson artist statement:
“My sculptures are carefully composed fossils of another era meant to communicate visual anecdotes, humorous observations or social statements about our lives, culture and our environment. My assemblages are constructed of humble old discarded objects, discovered on walks, at flea markets, garage sales or in dumpsters. Each “find” is an aesthetic treasure of textures, colors and patina. The parts are a slice of history. All components of my sculpture have had a previous life that is brought into the composition.” One can imagine who has touched them or what they were used for. Their story is told not only by the objects identity but also by the surface wear on the objects that only time and use can impart. I compose all of that history and patina to create new stories in my works. In addition to the specific intent behind each individual piece my overall goal is to awaken the viewer to the extraordinary beauty of the discarded historical objects.
MaryAnn Carlson artist Statement:
In my art I explore themes of personal relationships and beliefs as well as the iconography of culture and place. I begin compositions with artifacts that have a similar aesthetic or evoke a story. In my visual vocabulary I often include bits from my collections of vintage photographs, stones, broken china, and domestic tools. I try to create layers for visual exploration as well as metaphors for our shared experiences. I hope my art will spark stories of the past and inspire conversations about our personal histories.
Gary Carlson artist statement:
“My sculptures are carefully composed fossils of another era meant to communicate visual anecdotes, humorous observations or social statements about our lives, culture and our environment. My assemblages are constructed of humble old discarded objects, discovered on walks, at flea markets, garage sales or in dumpsters. Each “find” is an aesthetic treasure of textures, colors and patina. The parts are a slice of history. All components of my sculpture have had a previous life that is brought into the composition.” One can imagine who has touched them or what they were used for. Their story is told not only by the objects identity but also by the surface wear on the objects that only time and use can impart. I compose all of that history and patina to create new stories in my works. In addition to the specific intent behind each individual piece my overall goal is to awaken the viewer to the extraordinary beauty of the discarded historical objects.
MaryAnn Carlson artist Statement:
In my art I explore themes of personal relationships and beliefs as well as the iconography of culture and place. I begin compositions with artifacts that have a similar aesthetic or evoke a story. In my visual vocabulary I often include bits from my collections of vintage photographs, stones, broken china, and domestic tools. I try to create layers for visual exploration as well as metaphors for our shared experiences. I hope my art will spark stories of the past and inspire conversations about our personal histories.