Artist’s Statement

Artist Richard Simonsen

My work has been a journey of experimentation and discovery. I combine found metals, woods, aged hardware and assorted debris. Many of these components are treated with acids, solvents, waxes and paint. Other changes are made by crushing, grinding, torching and sanding to reshape and color the various layers of materials. The industrial elements establish a heavy texture that produces a sculptural depth that has a close affinity to architecture.

These combinations are not concerned with what the art could symbolize or represent but what they are – imagination in texture, shape and color. The use of dissimilar materials, trial and error, natural accidents and mistakes, all help form the inspiration and satisfaction in a final creation.

~ Richard Simonsen