David Boyajian - Statements

Regardless of what materials I use or what form my sculptures take, be they volumetric, concave / convex, linear or plainer, forged, fabricated, carved and so on. I basically deal with the same poetic perceptions.

My work centers around images that relate to man/woman’s relationship to their physical environment. I often begin with an architectural element such as a gate, column or window symbolizing passage and transformation as it relates to the journey of life. My shapes often define a narrative or metaphor by juxtaposing images from nature against the use of industrial materials within the architectural environment.

My themes are based on observations of nurturing, regeneration and growth, as well as poetic concepts relating to community, tolerance, and acceptance.

Creativity...

I feel creativity is set in two realities one being the natural order of things as in nature, the other being the mechanical or mathematical progression of order itself. Both have an equal and clear relationship to the physical world. For example, the artist cannot construct a beautiful figure by mathematical rules, yet he/she cannot ignore them either. These disciplines must be lodged some where between the back of his/her mind and the movement of his/her fingers.

Creative energy is not an abstract concept but a real, tangible experience like kindness, love, spirituality - simplicity, truth and beauty. To understand creative energy is the ability to perceive a message on an intuitive or emotional level and then translate that experience through the process of one's own work.

Creative energy is about growth, about acceptance of self, and about transformation. The idea is to be open to the concept of the journey and to be able to travel an unfamiliar path without resisting the opportunities that lie ahead; for the unpredictability of the journey and it's mystery sets in motion the creative energy flow.

Public Art...

The history of art is the history of mans existence and his attempt to rationally construct and give relevance to his emotional, physical, and spiritual connection to the world. Public Art stands, as a testament for our historical culture therefore the narrative is paramount.

Public Art must have a clear relationship to its environment and community of peoples. Public Art should be accessible and evoke a sense of reason. If the art is to communicate, it must entice and motivate those who live and work among it to ask questions and in doing so tempt their imagination. When this happens the process of the collective creative journey begins. Ultimately this should stimulate the viewer’s own creative response to their surroundings. Public art is for the people. Its intent should be inspiring.

Teaching...

Providing a fertile environment within a critical structure is vital while educating students about art. Learning about theory and history is equally as important as the practice of observation and the acquisition of skills. All of these elements lay the groundwork for the development of a student’s personal visual language.

The teacher must have the ability to nurture the intuitive nature of the student and help he or she to cultivate and trust their own insights. I feel complete when I see a student experiencing the act of creation and intuition as one and the same.

It is essential for a student to be able to express their perceptions in terms of concept weather abstract or conventional. The ability to invent and communicate about his or her invention is the foundation of creative genius. The structure that gives bearing to this tendency is a strong work ethic. The functions of technique insure the survival of creativity which intern insures the tenacity of the student throughout their academic and post academic career.

As a working artist and a teacher of sculpture, drawing and design, I feel that it is crucial to introduce the student to many disciplines as they apply to sculpture. While guiding the students in their practice of dealing with their ideas effectively, an interdisciplinary investigation offers limitless possibilities, and has the power to stretch the boundaries of preconception.

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