The Arts Council of Lake Oswego’s Artspace is currently showcasing the exhibition ‘WOODCORE,’ an impressive collection of woodwork and sculptures by seven distinct artists rooted in the rich culture of Oregon.
This exhibition delves into the complex relationship between humans and wood, illuminating the material’s significance and presence in the Pacific Northwest.
Upon entering the well-lit gallery, visitors are greeted with a refreshing breeze, inviting them into a space alive with creative expression.
Near the entrance, a unique, low-lying table designed for younger attendees is filled with intriguing pieces of wood.
These samples range from artistically carved forms to raw, organic shapes, showcasing the myriad possibilities of wood manipulation through the human element and the environment.
Among the featured artists is Portland-based sculptor Ben Young, recognized for his innovative works that oftentimes source materials from construction sites.
His pieces exemplify the craft of joinery, wherein he carves out spaces and fits wood into structured forms.
Notably, ‘Ixnay, Egads!’ is one of his standout works composed of oak, mahogany, plywood, and paint.
Its distinctive spiked silhouette, accompanied by rough joinery, sits atop an earthy green base and evokes a striking visual metaphor.
In contrast, Julian Watts provides a minimalist approach with his ‘Block Bowl,’ a sculpture of a rectangular block of Oregon walnut that evokes purity and simplicity.
The interior of the bowl features a central protrusion, reminiscent of natural forms, surrounded by flowing waves of wood grain that invite the viewer to contemplate the dance of light across its surface.
Megita Denton, another talented contributor, captures attention with her sculpture ‘How Thin Can We Make It.’
This intricate piece comprises thin walnut slabs held together by vibrant neon threads, embracing the idea of structural fragility and interconnectedness.
A small maple bowl suspended within the artwork adds an additional layer of meaning, emphasizing the need for support and balance in both art and life.
Exploring the lineage of artist influences present in ‘WOODCORE,’ Leroy Setziol stands out as a pivotal figure.
A highly regarded wood sculptor, Setziol’s work reflects decades of experience, creativity, and dedication, with a major piece on display being ‘Untitled Bas-Relief’ from 1970.
Crafted from teak, this nearly five-feet-wide relief showcases a captivating grid filled with various abstracted patterns, meticulously revealing the artist’s carving finesse.
Setziol’s legacy continues through the work of his daughter, Monica Setziol-Phillips.
Her piece ‘Looking for a Story,’ hewn from Alaska yellow cedar, incorporates influences from her father’s carving style while introducing a unique tapestry element that harmoniously merges wood and fiber.
Setziol-Phillips, whose passion for weaving complements her carving, demonstrates a strong interdisciplinary approach in her artistic practice.
Adam Zeek, a student of Setziol-Phillips, presents his own sculptural work that reflects the essence of his predecessors while also establishing his identity as an artist.
Utilizing Oregon black walnut, Zeek’s sculptures are marked by bold chisel strokes that play with light and shadow, highlighting the relationship between negative space and optical dynamics.
As visitors venture deeper into the gallery, they encounter Bobby Mercier’s striking piece ‘A Chief or a Headman of a Village,’ echoing Indigenous themes essential to the Pacific Northwest.
Mercier, a master carver with the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, embodies regional carving traditions through his figurative reliefs rendered in western red cedar.
His representation of distinct facial features and intricate patterns ties back to the essential connection of rivers and natural resources that shape the lives of Indigenous communities.
The exhibition conveys a powerful message about the nature of wood, its potential for collaboration, and the environmental considerations inherent in woodcrafting.
In an age marked by ecological challenges, ‘WOODCORE’ not only celebrates the artistry involved in sculpting wood but also raises critical questions about sustainability, preservation, and the living histories embodied within each piece.
Each artist featured not only showcases their individual talents but also contributes to an ongoing dialogue about heritage, craftsmanship, and ecological mindfulness in the Anthropocene.
Overall, the ‘WOODCORE’ exhibition offers a rich exploration of wood as a medium while honoring the diverse voices and perspectives of those who work with it.
image source from：orartswatch
