Carla Grahn

My inspiration  often comes from the forms or textures of the materials themselves, or during the learning and research process.  Most often, I work very intuitively with the conceptual aspects of my work revealing themselves to me during the creative process. My work often has an ambiguous quality.  Aesthetically, it is often rather textural, raw and unconfined.  My figurative work tends to be more narrative.  I can at times be very obsessive.  This is reflected in very detailed elements, as well as in series where I have used one material, exhaustively.

I often work on my pieces simultaneously.  I find this to be a very efficient and stimulating way to work.   It also  allows me to keep a perspective and objectivity by not rushing decisions or making poor decisions.

I enjoy the very different parameters and challenges of site specific work, as well as furniture design, so in addition to my sculpture have pursued these throughout my career.

I am committed to sharing my skills and have been teaching Creative Metal Working  and Welding at Pratt Fine Arts for 20 years, as well, as private  consultation.

I am not a supporter of the "Artist Statement" per se, feeling the work is mostly the dialogue, and is a reflection of all my life's experience/observation, be it political or highly personal.