NATHAN BLANK •   RICE, VA

Blank received his BFA in sculpture at the Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (2002) and his MFA in blacksmithing at the Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL. He currently works from his studio in Spruce Pine, NC.

 

 

"Inspiration from nature, a fascination with the effects of time, and the driving challenge of blacksmithing provide the basis of my work. In nature, I am drawn to the rich textures, complex surfaces, and relationship of collective forms that work together in harmony. I study the micro and macro environments that consist of attributes like layers, crevices, folds, pits, and wrinkles. In understanding how these things occur naturally, I can attempt to recreate the cause and effects in metal.

The cycles of growth and decay produce an eternal relationship. Natural materials and forms that weather, erode, grow, and evolve appear to convey time. Observing these things helps me to understand how I can capture a timeless quality in my work.”