foerstel + piper + martin

hand carved surrealism

Untitled (2008), dimensional lumber (2×4′s), 82″ x 18″ x 12″

Based in Richmond, Virginia artist Morgan Herrin transforms the most humble material—laminated construction grade 2x4s—into spectacularly detailed figurative sculptures. His choice of imagery is surreal: a noble 15th century knight melts into a network of dripping stalagmites or a classical marble bust that is overgrown with parasitic sea creatures. The resulting works are a fascinating juxtaposition of material and subject matter that require hundreds of hours of working with hand tools to construct each piece. The meticulous sculptor says:

“I immerse myself in the subject matter of my work. Often, several very different forms combine to create one physical object. My process is ultimately a result of the combination of my fascination with figurative sculpture of the past and obsessive research into a subject. I reference the passage of time and its effect on art in terms of both physical change and change in viewer perception.”

Learn more about Herrin’s work at ADA Gallery, and Mulherin + Pollard. All images courtesy ADA Gallery.

Untitled (2008), dimensional lumber (2×4′s), 82″ x 18″ x 12″
Untitled (2008), dimensional lumber (2×4′s), 82″ x 18″ x 12″

Copper Gate (2011), wood, 32″ x 19″ x 12″

Copper Gate (2011), wood, 32″ x 19″ x 12″

Untitled (Knight)

Untitled (Knight)

“Globe” 2010, Pine 2×4′s, Figure is life-size.

“Globe” 2010, Pine 2×4′s, Figure is life-size.

Untitled (detail) , 2007-2008

Untitled (detail) , 2007-2008

[via Juxtapoz]

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