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Mark Calderon | Recent Exhibition Nature and death have both been recurring themes throughout Calderon’s career, and these recent sculptures draw inspiration from several species of flora and fauna that have become extinct since they were first recorded by humans. The work explores the relationship between these creatures and their environment as well as mankind's use and abuse of that environment. Much of the work is cast in lead, a base metal carrying dangerous and taboo associations. A hummingbird is caught in frantic mid-flight, coiling snakes suggest the sinuous curves of Arabic calligraphy, skinks intertwine in unknown struggle, and mice rear up on hind legs as if in warning. A large swelling vertical form appears to be shingled in embossed lead panels. Nearby a column of child-sized coffin shapes, made of translucent paraffin, rises from floor to ceiling, reminding us of both life and death and the infinite nature of the latter. "My influences are many. Some I am aware of, and others still go unrecognized. African sculpture, Japanese aesthetics, Mexican folk arts, nature, personal experience and relationships, family, music, Christian art (both Gothic and Medieval) and other artist's creations, are some major influences I draw from. I do not like to create images that read as only one thing, but try to create works that have both power and mystery."
Bronze
NOCTURNE (octopus), 2007 click on an image to enlarge: |
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