Artist Profile

Gary Marsh

Novato, CA

It is my view that one does not “become an artist” but rather that an artist lives within, merely needing encouragement to emerge. That, which I cherish as a gift, provides an avenue to release deep personal emotions and to address concerns of happenings on the world stage, which might otherwise be sheltered deep inside out of view.

I don’t have a specific style, finding exploration to be the reward of having creative bones. That is not to say that a thread of recognition doesn’t weave itself through media used in both sculpture and painting. Clay, wood, steel, found objects, plaster, glass, paints and glazes combine into various forms. I am especially drawn to the human figure, which seems to emerge in some way in all of it. Whether literal or interpretive, personality is placed in each piece, inviting connection influenced by a viewer’s own history and personal interactions.

The theme for the exhibition “Dialogues” shown in Summer 2021 addresses the passing of time and our need to honor the physical and mental changes that inevitably require recognition, acceptance and attention, no matter how difficult that task may be. The ravages of time are currently affecting many individuals that I hold close to my heart. In honor of those individuals, and to give myself an outlet to deal with emotions, these works explore life as we age.

For the 2018 exhibition at Marin MOCA, the wood and found objects sculptures address rampant gun violence in America. Through the exploration and study of pure form and heavily influenced and inspired by all living things, they relay the balance required between the human race, our connection and our responsibility to protect the world we have the privilege to inhabit.

The ceramic sculptures shown in the 2015 exhibitions at Marin MOCA and Desta Gallery are an homage to sensuality, love and connection. They revisit the basics of clay from Mother Earth, thrown pottery morphed into anthropomorphic shapes, and simplicity.