The Wood Sculpture of Jerry Ward
An Artist Portfolio
Wood – A Treasure to Behold
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After working with wood Sculpture for the greater part of my life, I have developed a very inspirational reverence for wood. It was, after all, a once living thing, and I feel it still carries with it a residual essence of that. This lifeforce is there resting beneath its surface in the artful layers of its growth rings. As I carve it to suit my purpose, I find each piece has its unique story to tell. As I carve deeper into the wood the greater is of its history revealed. It is a buried treasure there to behold just waiting for discovery, and worth every effort to release it. This is, and always has been the source of inspiration behind my work as I seek to bring that remnant of life forth and let it breathe again.
In most instances my sculpture is produced from a single piece of wood. This allows for the growth rings to retain their continuity and enhance the form I wish to present. My work by purpose, alternates between coarsely textured pieces to the very sleek undulating forms seen on this site. Both styles reflect the “nature” that the tree represents from its own struggle to survive. this is epitomized by the contrast of sensation it expounds between the coarseness of its bark versus the beautiful swirling patterns exhibited by its growth rings when the wood is relieved in the carving process.
You will see, within this site, the result of my attention and commitment in portraying the beauty and mystery that only wood can provide as a meduim for sculpture. Take a look and see if you don’t agree. In My finished work I consider myself as but partner with wood in obtaining the end result.