Chad Awalt Wood Sculptures

Chad Awalt was introduced to woodcarving at an early age by his grandfather, and his creativity was sparked by growing up with an artistic family. He studied anatomy at the University of Colorado and has spent the last thirty years continually studying and expanding his knowledge of classical design and traditional art. His abilities range from classical woodcarving to traditional oil painting, with a specialty in rendering the human figure. The designs of the wood sculptures are executed from a single piece of wood that starts as a full log, sometimes weighing up to 800 pounds. Using his tools as sculpting instruments, most of the wood is removed to reveal the figure, or shape beneath. Each piece is dried in a kiln to insure stability of the medium before finishing.

Chad Awalt at Vinings Gallery

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"After years of watching designs form out of wood, while concurrently and diligently studying the classical figure, I have brought these two areas of intense focus of my work together. Combining the expression of the human figure with the sensitivity and warmth of wood has been the physical fulfillment of an evolving concept. I believe the fundamental essence of wood allows the human figure to be demonstrated as a perfect form of nature, so expressive in it’s subtleties and gestures. These creations present the viewer with a segment of the figure, a negative space, and a partial void that allows the unconscious to complete the form. They even convey an expression of energy and emotion. I am excited to be able to share these works and thereby attempt to communicate the passion that these pieces evoke in me."

Awalt's work provides a unique perspective on the human form and nature by using materials that continually surprises and delights audiences. His sculptures alternate between full and hollow shapes that define volume with the use of positive and negative space. His work emanates a unique expression of the human form that allows the viewer to experience the beauty and energy that inhabits our lives. For the last 20 years, Awalt has shown in galleries and exhibitions across the country. His work is found in private and corporate collections, ranging from Usher to Disney. He does numerous gallery and juried shows every year and has participated in multiple museum exhibitions and collections.