Brian Russell
In 1994 sculptor Brian Russell moved his studio to 15 acres in the countryside of Tennessee. During the next six years, he produced an exceptional volume of work, including four commissions for monumental architectural sculptures. Russell decided to re-introduce glass into his work in a more sculptural way, and after much experimentation and patience he was able to realize his vision of combining glass and metals. Even so, the techniques of fusing lacked the crisp sculptural qualities he desired.
BR13 “Hemisphere 113 Sail" 2006
cast glass and forged bronze 20 x 18 x 16 inches
BR20 “Large Hemisphere 42 Splay” (2006)
cast glass and forged steel, 14 x 18 x 14 inches
The transparency and optical nature of the colored cast glass have an inherent emotional effect that enable the artist to speak quietly, yet powerfully about his ideas on the nature of reality and purity of form.
Recently Brian Russell’s monumental sculpture "Torrential Flight" was selected by the Art in Public Places Commission of Palm Desert for the 2007-2008 El Paseo Exhibition.
BR25 “Hemisphere: Horn”
cast glass & forged steel
10 x 10 x10 inches
Brian Russell at work in his studio
On a visit to New Zealand in 1999 he learned of a lost wax glass casting technique that produced exciting results. Two more years of hard work and research resulted in the current state of Russell ’s art: a fusion of forged metals and cast glass unique to his sculpture. A confidence in technique and agility with materials now allows him to fully exploit his creative talents.
BR24 “Hemisphere: Curling 2"
cast glass & formed stainless steel
12 x 12 x 12 inches
“Torrential Flight” 2006
cast glass and forged aluminum,
140 x 52 x 42 inches