Good Art is Difficult to Find
That is, unless…. it comes walking through your front door.
A few weeks ago we were contacted by an artist out of Canada who wanted to come do a presentation for us because he thought his work might appeal to our firm’s aesthetic. Well, I am sure glad he did!
Ken Gangbar’s body of work is absolutely amazing. Ken is a talented sculptor. He works with various media, including ceramic, marble and glass to develop singular organic forms that he then groups together in interesting ways to create extraordinarily tranquil and fluid installations.
We had the opportunity to page through his website before his visit, and while his online gallery surely piqued my interest, seeing the individual forms in person injected a whole new energy about his craft. Each of the forms he makes is delicate and simple and straightforward… but when grouped together they have tremendous impact. They instantly evoke a sort of underwater experience… and you feel like you’re privy to walking amidst sea life.
Here is an example of his work:
My absolute favorite installation was done at the Se Hotel in San Diego. Ken created a dramatic wave-like pattern with his fin-shaped forms in the Lobby space. The white pieces were made from honed calacatta marble, and the brown pieces were made from glazed ceramic… the entire piece was lit from above, and the finished piece is so exquisite, it completely sets the tone for the rest of this beautifully designed hotel. Maybe a trip to California is in order?!
Good art truly IS hard to find, and is why it is so thrilling to be introduced to talented people like Ken. Not only does “out of the box” work like his give me something to think about, it jump starts my creativity as well. Take a moment to visit his wonderful website and look around. I’m sure you’ll be inspired too!
Happy Holidays –
submitted by Marita Simmons
