Rob Koehl Sculptures

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Thank you for visiting my site, here is a statement about my work.
 
 
 
 

Artist Statement

 

My art speaks to the practice of a mystical alchemist, seeking spiritual growth, through the process of co-creation. In human existence, an instrument through which God’s love and creation can be manifest in the world through choice.

The direct process of metalwork, allows me to experience the processes that shape the physical world. Wind blows metal to gas within the presence of lightning. Flowing rivers of molten metal connect continents of steel and copper into form. Cold steel and wood assert themselves into cupric and ferric reality through mild collisions and gentle twists in the presence of heat or after a cool bath of water. Stone chips away metal, spraying comet of light through space. Acid showers and salt baths create skins that transform light to symbol.

The process leaves behind many symbols, pointing to the wholeness that is life. Form speaking of the formless. That one might find the presence that transcends time through a higher consciousness.

 

 

 
 
Naïve American Art
 

Most pieces are cut out using a plasma cutter. It allows me to work quickly. I enjoy hammering the copper. It fascinates me how the copper can get so hard from hammering, then soft from just heating it then quenching it in water. I enjoy welding with the mig welder and brazing with the torches. Grinding can be rather therapeutic. Part of what draws me to the work is the process; wearing the protective gear, element of danger, and the fact that you have to stay present for the most part. I enjoy a certain level of mystery in the patinas. If I had to put a style to my art, I would call it Naive American. Working quickly to get the spirit of the piece across without overwhelming concern for perspective or color…bring it to market as a unique America work of art… reflecting our time… well it ain’t perfect, but it’s lots of fun.