Loading...



Hands - Gallery 1

The Artistry of Granite: Transforming Railroad Spikes into Iconic Hand Sculptures - Read more...
The Artistry of Granite: Transforming Railroad Spikes into Iconic Hand Sculptures Granite, an accomplished aerospace engineer based in Kansas, has always had a deep connection to the arts. Introduced to oil painting by his mother during childhood, he later pursued Art courses to complement his engineering education. His journey into sculpture began unexpectedly when he repurposed surplus railroad spikes from a construction project, transforming them into his primary medium. This shift marked the beginning of a unique artistic endeavor that combines technical precision with creative exploration.

Margaret Keane and the Power of Symbolic Representation Margaret Keane's childhood hearing issues led her to focus intently on people's eyes, inspiring her to paint figures with exaggerated eyes. This unique style influenced a global genre, seen in characters like the Powerpuff Girls and collectible figures like Funko Pop. Keane's story, adapted into a film by Tim Burton, highlights the power of symbolic representation in Art. Granite’s work similarly emphasizes symbolic meaning, particularly through his sculptures of hands.

The Significance of Hand Gestures Hand gestures hold various significances across different contexts. For Walter Hoving, the former chairman of Tiffany & Co., a handshake was a binding contract, symbolizing trust and commitment. In contrast, others view handshakes as routine and insignificant. However, for certain groups, hand gestures form the basis of essential communication, such as in sign language. In the context of Granite's art, hand gestures symbolize connection, communication, and unity. His sculptures, crafted from discarded railroad spikes, embody the idea of small, often overlooked elements holding together larger structures. These spikes, originally designed to secure railroad tracks, now form intricate sculptures that convey deep emotional and spiritual intimacy.

Granite’s Sculptures: Repurposing and Renewing Value Granite’s hand sculptures made from railroad spikes symbolize the importance of repurposing and renewal. Influencer Gary Vee’s analogy, "A basketball in my hands is worth nothing. A basketball in LeBron’s hands is worth millions," underscores the transformative power of context and skill. Similarly, Granite transforms scrap metal into art, extending its value and preventing environmental deterioration.

Recognizability and Artistic Impact A crucial tool in an artist's toolbox is recognizability—the ability for viewers to instantly grasp the essence of a piece. Granite’s sculptures achieve this with their distinct and evocative forms. The "Genesis" sculpture, notable for its seemingly weightless appearance, exemplifies Granite’s skill in creating impactful, easily recognizable art.

Conclusion: Endless Combinations and Creative Enrichment Just as books are crafted from various combinations of twenty-six letters and paintings from countless paint strokes, Granite’s arrangements of railroad spikes offer infinite possibilities for creative expression. His work not only enriches viewers but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the value of repurposed materials and the symbolic power of hand gestures. Through his sculptures, Granite invites us to see the potential for beauty and meaning in the most unexpected places.