INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT:
YMI:
Your site is gorgeous-all those womanly forms-I ache to touch them.
As we spoke of before, you graciously agreed to let me feature your sculpture of” Essence" on my nascent web page L.A. Voyager. And to make the interview process easier on my part you would answer some of my question in the form of e-mail. So here goes:
1. Why did you go to Italy to sculpt?
KM
I've dreamed of studying in Italy for many years. The finest marble in the world, the most experienced artisans and some of the oldest studios are there.
Not to mention the wonderful people, food, architecture and art work that takes your breath away. It was a dream come true.
2. What did you learn there that affected you as an artist?
KM
I learned a tremendous amount. I learned the traditional Italian approach to carving marble with specific techniques and tools. I also advanced my ability to sculpt anatomy in subtractive 3-dimentional form.
3. I thought you had used a model in Essence, or had an ideal in mind. Why did you sculpt yourself? What was the process like? What did you see in your body that you wished to express?
KM
Without a model it's a great challenge to sculpt anatomy well, therefore I use what's most familiar and accessible.
My process includes some visual research, lots of drawing, small clay model, and knowledge of the female form.
I most want to express women as strong, soft and sensual. Much like the Renaissance period when women were honored for their womanly hips, yet strong and confident, like the women of today.
4. There is such profound sensuality in your work, what is it like bringing up something so intimate for the world to view?
KM
It's very gratifying. I long to see and find more sensuality in the world, therefore I can't help but to create it.
5. The parts that are broken off make the piece so poignant and so tragic? Does that say something about your (or our) nervousness something being too beautiful or too perfect?
KM
You're close. The last few figurative sculptures I've done have dealt with the beauty of our spirit within and the struggle or pain body of the human condition. This is why the contrast of the broken and rough rock against the soft fluid body is so appealing to me.
The piece titled "Truth" is represents this well. The "truth" is that there is beauty beneath our flaws.
6. It is more realistic than your other pieces-do you think realistic art is still relevant in modern times?
KM
I think it's timeless. I'm continuously amazed at the diversity and uniqueness of each and every person. I never tire of seeing a sunset or meeting a new face. So in my artwork I strive to bring beauty, energy and some newness to my realistic pieces.
7. How have people been affected by this piece? How can you stand that it will be bought and taken out of your possession?
KM
The response has been incredible. People tell me they love my work, but "Essence" is their favorite. It definitely affirms that the direction I'm going is being well received.
I have been known to be fairly attached to my work since each sculpture is a one-of-a-kind, but the more I allow the other people to receive and show it in their own homes, the more new work comes forth through me.
8. Where are your next showings? Where would you like to show?
KM
I'm now showing at the BGH gallery at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica.
My next goal is Lahaina on Maui. Also my work can be viewed at anytime from my web address: www.kimmosleycreations.com.
9. What are you working on now?
KM
I have a new piece in the thinking stage. It's a large dark orange alabaster stone that is soon to reveal it's calling to me.
YMI
Thank- you Kim. I look forward to meeting you again soon. |