Playing with Gravity
Series Statement
Equipped with only my hands, I seek some of the worlds most remote locations and the most populated ones alike, searching for stones. Working by inspiration from my surroundings, I balance these stones in ways that challenge the human mind as to what is possible. I'm constantly exploring the boundaries of gravity and I have learned to understand and appreciate it a great deal. For me, balancing these stones creates a balance within myself, this inner balance is what I long for others to experience should they encounter one of these works. I feel these pieces are most alive right after my hands leave the stones and they remain locked in place, I often capture this moment of equilibrium with a photograph.
Despite gravity effecting nearly every aspect of human life, we rarely stop to think about it. Through this primal force we are all connected and congruently connected to the earth. It is rare that we realize this strong connection we all share, the balances that I create are essentially visual displays of this connection. I find it intriguing that as the earth rotates at over 1000 mph, and circles around the sun at over 67,000 mph in a spiraling galaxy, a stone can be perfectly balanced on a fine point for days or even weeks at a time.
The idea of creating stone balances is far from new, people have been playing with gravity by balancing stones for thousands of years; a perfect example of this the massive stones at Stonehenge. This art form is such a natural one for me, I feel as if I'm in touch with my primal roots when I work the stones. I'm in constant pursuit of proving my mind wrong by doing works that challenge my belief as to what can be done, I don't think my hunger will ever be satiated in this pursuit.
The Book
Playing With Gravity the book is 7 years in the making, and is finally ready for publication. I started this series in Sitka Alaska in 2000 and have since been to 8 U.S. States and 4 country's creating works. The book will feature full page photographs of many of the works I have created in these places, along with short story's and explanations. Harry N. Abrams is likely going to be the publisher - though I'm still in the selection process. I will have a book release concurrently with a gallery opening when the book is finished. Updates will be added as progress is made and PlayingwithGravity.com will be up and running soon.
Playing with Gravity Projects
New projects coming soon. Stay tuned.