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PLASTER SAND CASTS
Capturing the ephemeral beauty of Cape Cod's low-tide sand ripples and its landscape, these plaster casts invite us to find serenity and grounding in the swirling tides of change. They're cast directly on the beach, each one unique and unable to be replicated, using natural, local, and found materials. Ranging in size from 6x6" to 19x28", even the smallest holds a universe of texture and depth.
With buckets of water and plaster, wooden frames, and a mixing drill in hand, I trek out on the flats just before the tide is at it's lowest for maximal time. Searching for the ripples that speak to me is a very intentional and meditative process. They're infinitely different every time - and new patterns and shapes appear every step. Once I've resonated with an area, I press the wooden frames into the sand, playing with directionality and composition, I carefully tease the plaster into to the water and mix, and then, it's game-time. Pouring the plaster into the casts on soft sand is an extremely delicate process. If I pour too quickly, it disrupts the
sand and creates a bubble in the final piece. I'm also at the whim of the set-time of gypsum plaster, having to pour it within a 15-minute window. After 30-45 minutes, I lift the casts and bring them to the shop for slow meticulous processing.
For the pieces with more consistent ripples and stones in the middle, I carefully flatten and sculpt the sand with my fingers. Then the same process follows as above with pouring and processing. Next come the stones, each one found one the beach and meticulously set in place with traditional lime mortar. These pieces hold deep truths and paradoxes, only felt by the observer, and bring life and animacy to the seemingly inanimate. They're also intended to be viewed in states of meditation and contemplation, bringing balance and harmony into our field of vision.
Reach out for to schedule a viewing, availability and commissions, as well as custom pieces for architectural elements like backsplashes and fireplaces.
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