EricStahlWorks
Metal sculpture is a deep-seated passion that ignites my creativity and soul. Be it modeling wax and sketching in the studio or casting bronze and welding steel in the foundry.
Working in metal is a dance between raw strength and delicate finesse of the material. It requires mastery over multiple techniques, including sculpting, investing, casting, smithing, and patination. The process demands an artist's keen eye for form, balance, and expression while requiring an ability to work with tools like a craftsmen. Beyond the technical challenges, metal sculpting is deeply fulfilling on a personal level. The satisfaction of seeing my creations evoke emotions and resonate with viewers is unparalleled.
Each piece of metal is embedded with a history born through fire, with potential waiting to be unlocked. I find immense joy in uncovering its secrets. The process itself is as exhilarating as the finished product. Starting with rough sketches and ideas, I delve into the metalworking journey with a mix of anticipation and reverence. Every pour, every weld, brings me closer to capturing the essence of my vision. It's a journey of discovery and creation, where each piece evolves organically under my hands.
What draws me most to metal sculpting is its versatility. From monumental outdoor installations to intricate indoor pieces, metal can be shaped into almost any form imaginable. This flexibility allows me to explore a wide range of themes and emotions, from the bold and powerful to the subtle and introspective. Moreover, metal sculpting is a timeless craft that connects me to a rich tradition of artisans and craftsmen throughout history.
Like my sculptures, my paintings are a reflection of the dynamic and intimate moments that define the human experience. Whether capturing the energy of a sporting event, the subtle expressions of a portrait, or the warmth of family memories, my work is an exploration of movement, connection, and emotion.
Sport, for me, is not just an action; it's a powerful narrative of struggle, triumph, and unity that is transcendent. The intensity of a game, the focused determination of athletes, and the fleeting moments of glory and defeat become visual stories that speak to our shared human spirit. They are touchstones of our collective experience and memories.
Portraits allow me to delve deeper into individual identities, capturing the essence of people beyond their physical features. Each portrait is an opportunity to reflect not just on who individuals are in that moment, but also on the emotions and stories they carry within them. It's about honoring the subtlety and complexity of human expression. I find great meaning in depicting families and friends. The shared laughter, tender gestures, or quiet comfort of being together are timeless. Through my pieces, I memorialize these memories.
At the heart of my work is the idea that our experiences, whether on the playing field, in our homes, or in quiet moments, are woven into the fabric of who we are. A simple photo is transformed into a work of art that highlights the bonds that connect us. Through color, texture, and composition, I strive to capture not just the visual likeness of these experiences but also their emotional depth, ensuring they endure as tangible memories.