Jeff Baldus

My father was a gardener and one of his greatest gifts to me was the gift of faith that a seed planted will sprout and grow.  Nature, seeds and seed pods have a metaphoric presence in my work, speaking of my father, of life, of potential, and of rebirth.

The works quietly speak about relationships – relationships with materials, nature, family and friends and especially with my father.   Most of the wood that I use comes from places that I have a personal connection with and from trees that have already died or been damaged by storms.  Oftentimes they are used in their found or slightly altered state. 

I also enlarge nature and/or manipulate the natural elements encouraging the viewer to see the beauty that is present all around them.  My process involves manipulating the materials to enhance their beauty and integrity. I combine materials in unexpected and subtle ways while discovering the joy of following the materials and the work as they reveal where they need to go. 

 

Jeff is a potter and sculptor. He has an MFA in sculpture from the University of South Dakota and a BA from Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, IA, where he taught as an assistant professor of art.He serves on the Sioux City Art Center Board of Trustees.