Jay Stratton
Jay Stratton -- Artist Statement
www.jaystratton.com
E-Mail
I graduated from Drake University, Des Moines, IA., in 1979 with
a Bachelors of Fine Arts. Like many artists, I delivered flowers,
worked in construction, and had a few other jobs that had
nothing at all to do with art for several years. Then, I married my
support staff and was in a position to establish my very own
business in Missouri in 1985! My motto was honed: “you must
know the rules before you can break them”. Much of my early
experience was with antique restoration and furniture repair.
This was eye opening in regard to what is structurally lasting,
and what is passing. I learned, practiced, researched, and
finally earned the right and privilege to begin working on my
dream - producing one of-a-kind studio furniture, custom
cabinetry, and eventually, the high honor of liturgical and
commercial work! In 1996, we relocated to my home town;
The Quad Cities, USA! I have participated in many juried art
shows and galleries, and have been an honored recipient of
many awards through the years.
Working with architects, designers, decorators, corporations,
churches and private collectors, I have created very specific
furniture and sculpture to serve my client’s needs, from very
contemporary designs to replication of existing 100 year old
carvings. Commissioned furniture and sculpture creates for a
fantastic process. I love the challenge of creating something
new; something different that's never been done. Working with
committees of one or twenty one; clarifying and refining details;
urging the materials; a full hearted endeavor to achieve what
the client needs. When it comes to carving the ideas out of
wood, I have to let the wood flow; be alive, feel that life, and
move with it. Proportion, thickness of a line, contrast of the
wood; all so very important in how a piece moves and attracts
the eye...bringing a person in for a closer look...pulling the hand
in for a touch so the viewer can become intimate. When “left to
my own devices”, the final product tends to be very organic,
flowing and sculpted. Inspiration may come from architecture,
nature, music, or a Bible verse. Sometimes, I don't have a clue
where an idea may have come from. That's when I just look up
and say “thanks”.
Then, the final reward! When all is finished, delivered, installed,
and my client looks me in the eye, shakes my hand, and says..."
It's better than I ever dreamed or expected".
Give me a call. Let’s see what we can create together! I hope
to be working with you soon!
www.jaystratton.com
I graduated from Drake University, Des Moines, IA., in 1979 with
a Bachelors of Fine Arts. Like many artists, I delivered flowers,
worked in construction, and had a few other jobs that had
nothing at all to do with art for several years. Then, I married my
support staff and was in a position to establish my very own
business in Missouri in 1985! My motto was honed: “you must
know the rules before you can break them”. Much of my early
experience was with antique restoration and furniture repair.
This was eye opening in regard to what is structurally lasting,
and what is passing. I learned, practiced, researched, and
finally earned the right and privilege to begin working on my
dream - producing one of-a-kind studio furniture, custom
cabinetry, and eventually, the high honor of liturgical and
commercial work! In 1996, we relocated to my home town;
The Quad Cities, USA! I have participated in many juried art
shows and galleries, and have been an honored recipient of
many awards through the years.
Working with architects, designers, decorators, corporations,
churches and private collectors, I have created very specific
furniture and sculpture to serve my client’s needs, from very
contemporary designs to replication of existing 100 year old
carvings. Commissioned furniture and sculpture creates for a
fantastic process. I love the challenge of creating something
new; something different that's never been done. Working with
committees of one or twenty one; clarifying and refining details;
urging the materials; a full hearted endeavor to achieve what
the client needs. When it comes to carving the ideas out of
wood, I have to let the wood flow; be alive, feel that life, and
move with it. Proportion, thickness of a line, contrast of the
wood; all so very important in how a piece moves and attracts
the eye...bringing a person in for a closer look...pulling the hand
in for a touch so the viewer can become intimate. When “left to
my own devices”, the final product tends to be very organic,
flowing and sculpted. Inspiration may come from architecture,
nature, music, or a Bible verse. Sometimes, I don't have a clue
where an idea may have come from. That's when I just look up
and say “thanks”.
Then, the final reward! When all is finished, delivered, installed,
and my client looks me in the eye, shakes my hand, and says..."
It's better than I ever dreamed or expected".
Give me a call. Let’s see what we can create together! I hope
to be working with you soon!
 | |  | |  | |  |
