I create
out of joy and this reflects in my
work. My style is whimsical, happy and generally
pretty abstract. I know I have created a good
piece if it makes me smile when I see it. I am
self-taught and believe that to be an advantage
rather than a hindrance. Among other things,
formal training teaches the "rules"
about how to make "good art." If there
is anywhere that rules should be broken, it is
with art.
I work
with recycled steel, found objects, and steel
tubing, rebar, etc. I like that I can turn what
would ordinarily be considered waste into art.
Steel is a versatile material. It is malleable
and can be readily shaped with the proper tools
and it is strong and durable while also having
flexibility. This is perfect for outdoor pieces.
I hope you enjoy looking at the work displayed
here.
GATES
AND ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS
If you
enjoy my style and would like to commission a
gate or other architectural detail, here's what
you need to know:
I do not
do "traditional" iron work. Since I
live in the Southwest, I get lots of requests
for a "Southwest" theme like Indians,
or cowboys, etc. I don't do that either. When
you see the work on this web site, try to get a
feel for the spirit of my work. If you like my
style, I will be happy to work in collaboration
with you to produce a piece that contains your
input and ideas. For example, if you are into
cars, I can include pieces of cars or tools in a
gate.
If you are
interested in a commission, I would like to meet
with you, see the place where the work will go,
and come up with an idea that suits you. I will
then do several drawings. You can pick which
drawings you like the best. You can even combine
your favorite elements of different drawings to
come up with a final idea. I will then do a
final drawing and submit it for your approval.
Once I get
your approval, a 50% deposit will be required
before I start work. The balance will be due
once you take delivery. If I am to install the
gate, I will include the cost of the
installation in the estimate..
SCULPTURES
With the
sculptures I operate differently than with the
gates. This is where I go wild and do my best to
tune in to inspiration. This is a very personal
thing so I prefer to make what I want to make
and then offer it up for sale. That does not
preclude commissions, however. If you want a
wind sculpture, for example, I will be
happy to make one for you. The only condition is
that I get to retain artistic freedom to produce
what inspiration guides me to produce. This way
you will get my best work - the work that most
powerfully expresses my particular style.
If you
have any questions, feel free to
Contact
me
BIOGRAPHY
Royce
Carlson was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1953.
When he was one year old his family moved to
Southern California. He went to college at
California State University, Fullerton but did
not graduate. Yep, he's a dropout! He
moved to Washington state in the mid-70's,
lived in a commune and had such a great time
that the normal world of careers, etc. lost its
appeal completely. After some years of
unsatisfying attempts to fit himself into the
corporate, upwardly-mobile world of the American
Dream, he "dropped out" again when he
moved to Prescott, Arizona in 1991.
Since
then, Royce has worked mostly as an artist
although lean times sometimes caused him to fall
back on his skills in construction and
"handyman" activities. He has no
formal artistic training. Until 1999,
he was an abstract painter working in acrylic.
Welded steel sculpture is a fairly recent
thing. Lately, he has been filling his
yard with junk steel. He loves to get up in
the morning, go to his shop, and decide what
he's going to make today. He is a happy guy.
He
lives with his wife, Juanita, who is also a
sculptor. She works in concrete. You can see her
work at
http://www.zenzibar.com/juanita
His
steel sculptures are on display at
Van Gogh's Ear
Gallery in Prescott, Arizona
and
Kinion Fine Art in Sedona,
Arizona
