Sawyer Boyd

In 2021, a dream ignited an artistic journey that continues to shape my creative practice. In the dream, a mysterious bear stood before me, its side facing me as it gazed off into the distance. Unlike a typical bear, this one stood upright like a human, dressed in a hoodie, baggy jeans, and oversized tennis shoes. Its expression was calm, neutral, and deeply present, as if lost in thought or contemplation of something unseen. This image resonated so powerfully that I was compelled to bring it to life through art. Since that dream, this bear has evolved into a recurring figure in my work. It has appeared in paintings, reliefs, 3D renderings, and castings in bronze and iron. Each iteration deepens my understanding of its essence: a symbol of curiosity and reflection, embodying the observer and the observed. Now, I seek to further this exploration by sculpting the bear in marble, a material that embodies timelessness and permanence, fitting for the themes of introspection and connection that this figure represents. This sculpture will serve as a meditation on art's role as both mirror and maker. The bear, positioned to face other artworks, reflects the experience of engaging with art—not as a passive observer but as an active participant in its meaning. It captures the essence of humanity’s dual role as creators of art and creations shaped by life’s experiences, perspectives, and emotions. Through this project, I aim to start a new series of sculptural works that delve into the intersection of human emotions and animal symbolism. Animals have long been metaphors for human traits, and I am particularly interested in exploring how they can embody subconscious feelings and perspectives. Each sculpture will depict a different species, carefully chosen to symbolize unique aspects of human experience. As I embark on this new collection, I will draw inspiration from my Venezuelan heritage, infusing the work with cultural narratives and personal connections to artistic traditions. Venezuela's rich history of stone and metal artifacts will inform my research and serve as a foundation for the series, merging contemporary techniques with ancestral craftsmanship. Additionally, I plan to incorporate Venezuelan fabric designs onto the bear's clothing through texture mapping, weaving traditional patterns into the visual and emotional fabric of the collection. Ultimately, this bear is more than a character; it is a bridge between the visible and the unseen, the physical and the emotional. It invites viewers to pause, observe, and consider their relationship with art and with themselves. I envision this sculpture as the cornerstone of a broader exploration that connects cultural heritage, contemporary expression, and universal themes of humanity. This project is not just about creating a sculpture; it is about continuing a journey of artistic discovery and inviting others to join in that exploration.
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