Artist Curtis Olson’s powerful mixed media images often feature the circle, reminding us of our relationship to the infinite. Please visit this artist’s website to learn more.
“Aerial Survey #7” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 30” x 30”
I had a semi-nomadic childhood. My family moved frequently, but I spent most of my childhood in the Western United States. I spent a lot of time alone, and was fascinated by the outdoors and its abundant creatures and beautiful patterns.
“Circle Squared” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 30” x 30”
At night, I would draw what I had seen while outside exploring or spend time creating my own maps. In school, my classmates would make special requests for drawings of wild cars, monsters and snowmobiles.
“Disc-Like Object (Red)” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 48” x 48”
My talent for drawing and design led to being gently guided into a career in architecture.
“Water Keeper” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 36” x 40”
While earning an architectural degree at university, I pursued a decidedly artistic angle. I focused on good design and minored in fine art and graphic design.
“Vessel #1” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 60” x 60”
During my fifteen-year career as an architect, I was recognized for my artistic architectural designs while I continued to dabble in graphic design and to study and make art. During a brief stint in a Masters of Fine Art program, I realized that I needed to find my own voice in my own way.
“Eccentric” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 36” x 36”
Though I love architecture and poured my heart and soul into it, I always felt an inner pull towards art. I knew that if I was ever to pursue it as a profession, I needed to fully commit to it and give up the distraction of architecture.
“Flower Floats Above” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 36” x 36”
As I was considering a career change, my grandmother died. Thinking of her unfulfilled dreams and regrets inspired me to quit architecture to pursue art full-time.
“The Things We Keep” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 36” x 36”
My art continues to evolve, but one concept remains constant. I am interested in creating powerful objects that live in the real (not the digital) world, with weight and age.
“Memorabilia” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 60” x 30”
The overriding aesthetic of my artwork is best embodied in the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, the beauty and authenticity of imperfection and earthiness. My art often has deep texture and a fresco appearance. It is achieved by repeatedly scoring and sanding the base material, which I developed by experimenting with marble dust and concrete.
“Wheel-Like Object (Black)” Marble Dust Plaster/Cement Mixture, Acrylic, Enamel and Waxes on Wood Panel, 48” Diameter x 5” Deep
The subject of my artwork reflects my ever-changing interests. These works are not mere abstractions, but are born from a world of ideas representing the myriad of influences swirling in my overactive brain.
Artist Curtis Olson invites you to follow him on Instagram.
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