Artist's Statement
David Newton
Artist’s Statement, 2007
This work is generally about pressure, which it seeks to convey viscerally through the employment of three forces: tension, suspension and compression. I am also interested in conveying an impression of instability, which is expressed through occasionally off-kilter forms and structures. The ideas of pressure and instability do not need to be seen as negatives, as it is through forces like these that change is brought about. Since it is obviously an expression of who I am, this work is often humorous and colorful, which helps to balance the sometimes loaded subject. The intent is to reflect my own interior landscape as well as the state of the world today.
The sculptures sometimes include wheels, which highlights the tragicomic reality that most of us are rolling around, trying to keep it together. The use of common materials, such as found objects and standard hardware, also serves to connect the works to our everyday lives. Likewise, the apparent or actual interactivity of many of the sculptures invites the viewer to think of them in connection to themselves.
While content is important in my work, there are some formal concerns that also unite the work. The forms are generally spacious and airy, with color playing an important part. An affinity for the combination of geometric and organic forms, and an ongoing interest in line are two prominent features. In addition to hardware and found objects the most common material is welded steel, with occasional woodwork.