Artist Statement: Douglas Dale

I, Douglas Dale, am a sculptor inspired by transformation of found materials. I use common objects and edit them into unrecognizable, unique textiles. I encourage maximum interaction between the viewer and my work, using senses other than mere sight to allow access to a wider audience.

I hope to attract viewers by presenting unfamiliar mediums. Found objects are manipulated into something alien to a gallery, as I mix spools of yarn to form a soft textile, or heat glue to make a flesh-like membrane. The viewer’s unfamiliarity with the object produces its own concept, as one attempts to relate to the piece through his or her own experiences and connotations.

Accessibility in art is on of my crucial goals. Extrasensory elements are included to not only enhance the experience of able-bodied viewers, but to also open up the world of fine art to the young or visually impaired. With the inclusion of senses beyond sight, including touch, sound and scent, I hope to widen the audience of fine art, allowing those inclined to touch to give in and experience the piece more fully. Intellectual accessibility is also a part of this goal, for abstract ideas are clearly articulated by plaques or literature, hoping to combat the stereotype of “insider” art.

(Note: I totally misunderstood this assignment and posted it to my other blog. So I had it up by the end of class, just not in the right place.)