ArtInPlace Public Art Competition: Sculpture on Fifth Street, Charlottesville, Virginia

Since 1993 I have completed approximately 100 sculptures, all from mild steel. Most are painted; one is lacquered, and one is powder coated. In some I have created what I think are visually pleasing, semi-abstract figures in dynamic poses, occasionally reflecting my knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics. In others a more whimsical side is displayed. My work has developed in several ways over the last eight years, partly from the variety of my experience and partly from observing sculpture in art shows, museums and magazines. For instance, I had to teach myself how to make pieces modular for easier assembling and transporting. Gradually I have become more resourceful in constructing three-dimensional objects. And I am always finding out what projects bring out the best in the medium of steel. Sculpture that appears to defy gravity is particularly attractive to me.

The Tennis Players were originally constructed as a present for a friend, a tennis enthusiast, who kindly allowed me to include them in my application for the Art-In-Place Exhibition. They resided on an embankment overlooking his home for several years. My focus in constructing them was to illustrate the potential energy of a soon to be released serve and the tension within the player receiving it. They have also been repainted by Herman Johnson for Art-In-Place."