I can't believe how quickly the summer flashed by, and while things haven’t slowed down, I am presently in a nice lull between projects. It’s the perfect time for an update.
This summer, I was a part of a project that honored the history and culture of the Tr'ondek Hwech'in people in Dawson City, Yukon. Over the past few months, I had the pleasure of conceptualizing and constructing a faro cement and metal statue of revered Han Chief, Chief Isaac. This project took long days and hard work, but it was a fulfilling process from start to finish.
I was fortunate to find keen sponsors in M2 Gold Mines, as well as to work in collaboration with my good friend and fellow local artist, Jake Armstrong, whose metalwork expertise really helped to bring this statue to life. Jake crafted Chief Isaac's cane, earrings, and feathers, each piece made of metal and fitted as one of the final steps before the statue was transported to its final location.
The transport and installation of the statue went as smoothly as we could have hoped, and once in place, it remained covered until its reveal at the Tr'ondek Hwech'in Fall General Assembly in late August. Seeing the community come together for this was a deeply moving experience. I felt honored to contribute to such a meaningful project and was grateful for another opportunity to work in sculpture.
With that project complete, my focus now shifts to my next venture: exhibiting at Art San Diego this upcoming November 1st- 3rd. Art San Diego is a pivotal event in the contemporary art world, drawing an international audience of collectors, curators, and art lovers. I’ll be showcasing a new collection of work that’s been a long time in the making and is a departure from my more familiar landscapes.
These pieces aren’t all brand new and many of these works were created solely for me, without an audience in mind. Having evolved organically, they reflect years of exploration and experimentation and moments of inspiration. It took a while for me to realize the collection I had and then it took even longer to decide to share these publicly. In part, this is what separates this exhibition from anything I’ve done before. I am excited to see how these pieces resonate, and I’m honored to exhibit alongside such a diverse and talented group of artists. It’s a chance to connect with new audiences and to push my own creative boundaries. I’m really looking forward to seeing what this experience brings.
If you’re in or around the San Diego area Nov. 1st – 3rd, and would like to come by and see for yourself, register for a complimentary pass at Art San Diego 2024 (ticketspice.com). I hope to see you there!
