Johnson City, NY
This exhibit introduces the viewer to a collection of genuinely unique, highly refined sculptures which owe their distinctive character to the life’s passion of artist Richard G. Nolan. Educated and trained as a mechanical design engineer, Rich’s compulsion to develop “problem solving” designs, combined with his proclivity for elegance, has resulted in an eclectic collection with a clean sophisticated style symbolic of the reputation he developed as a respected design engineer.
Rich’s creations are constructed principally from cherry and black walnut hardwoods; utilizing conventional woodworking tools, a strong reliance on self-developed techniques used for seamless joining and sanding as the principle method of sculpting. Functionally, the two species exhibit comparable workability conducive to reliable assembly. Aesthetically, the two species complement each other, allowing Rich to paint with light and dark tones.
Rich’s work communicates a strong emphasis on design, derived from his extensive mechanical drafting background. Each piece is meticulously planned out in advance, allowing him to formulate solutions with great confidence and with impeccable accuracy. His greatest reward is a sophisticated enthusiast’s wonderment as to how his works of art are constructed.
A self-described perfectionist, Rich’s background as a product development engineer motivates his approach: “While continually building on mastered achievements, each new creation demands that I challenge myself by introducing processes, techniques and shapes that have yet to be experienced. This compulsion to constantly test my capabilities is what drives and inspires me to grow as an artist.”
