I enjoy creating for artistic expression pleasure. But I have been diagnosed with PTSD, my art with a hammer is now therapy & pleasure :)
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
My art from reclaimed steel once used in the fishery, represents our people and place. Even the act of beachcombing for old steel is a part of my art. The steel I find determines what I will create. The rust & fish skeleton shape represent the deteriorated fishery, while the enduring steel represents the people. The curved shape of my Thank Cod sculpture also symbolizes the recycling symbol.
Where do you find inspiration?My inspiration comes from my home and the people in Newfoundland & Labrador. But the salvaged steel determines what I make. Its size, shape, past use and where it is found all play a role in inspiring the final piece. While the material guides the form the deeper inspiration comes from the land, people and our shared history.
What would you do with $25,000?As a single father for over 15 years my main focus is supporting son and his university education. A portion of this money would go to reducing that debt but the rest would be invested back into my art, specifically upgrading my tools, expanding my capabilities create more complex and extensive creations. Right now I’m limited to my traditional Coal forge. I do love working with Coal, It is an art in itself but I would really like to upgrade my shop and explore my full artistic capabilities.
Vote for Ian Gillies to become The People's Artist while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting The Art of Elysium in their mission to use art as a catalyst to help people triumph over difficult life challenges.
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