About
Artist Statement
I have been an artist for over 35 years working in a multidisciplinary approach in metal design and mixed media. My recent travels and studies have reestablished my original disciplines, painting and photography, as the major components of my work.
“I have been wanting to uniquely combine my painting with my photography for many years. Now, using digital techniques I have developed a process specific to this style.”
Printing on transparent layers of acrylic medium, (like plastic wrap) I am able to transfer the images to the metal surface and alter them by painting both under and over them. I can add as many layers as needed and decide where to deepen the images or keep them transparent allowing the metal surface to reflect through. The best surprise is when a piece is finished and you see it in different room lights, coming from different angles. Some things just disappear while other parts of the piece that you didn’t even notice, jump out at you! My panels and sculptures are formed from aluminum or steel to create a 'metal canvas' to which I attach elements such as imagery, cut-out steel figures, painted, stenciled or silk screened images. Other materials may include any of the following; metal, wood, acrylic, pigments, or found objects.
In my abstract form works I engage the viewer with intriguing imagery and the illusion and definition of space. Each piece suggests a personal story; transitions made, personally or professionally, or directions taken (or not taken) that lead down a path unexpected. Geometric forms reflect my interests in orbital mechanics and the precision of mathematical understanding.
When I work with the figure, whether it’s a human or a human-doll, it inspires me by the impression of expression on the face. What does it seem to say? How does it affect us? What do we feel when we look into it’s eyes? By placing the figures among the parallel bands, I create a layered depth within the boundary of the piece. Generally I place them above a textured metal surface that’s simultaneously reflective and solid. I love metal and having worked with it for 20+ years as a furniture designer and sculptor.
The Japanese dolls are a piece of emotional history for me. I spent time there, in Japan, as an exchange student. It was a pivotal moment in my personal history and has affected my artwork, my designs and many aspects of my life ever since. I also think that Geisha dolls show a cultural uniqueness that’s instantly recognizable. They have subtle non-verbal connections, tell a story and I believe add meaning to an otherwise abstract surface. Enjoy.
Past board member of the American Craft Council.
I have been an artist for more than 35 years.
1975 Exchange student to Sendai, Japan
1980 BA; Advertising; Pennsylvania State University
Additional Education: 1976 - 2016
Engineering, PAINTING AND PHOTOGRAPHY; Pennsylvania State University
Painting: Moyer Studio; Al Wynn Studio; Colorado College; University of Maryland
Metal sculpture: University of Maryland; Anderson Ranch Arts Center
Photography: Anderson Ranch Arts Center; with Jill Enfield, Greg Gorman, R.Mac Holbert, Robert and Shana Parkharrison
Fused and Slumped Glass: Bullseye Glass Studio and Gallery
Occupations:
1981- 1986: US Air Force officer; NORAD Space Defense Analyst; Space Sciences Instructor.
1986-1993: Computer Sciences Corp.: Data Analyst, Space Shuttle mission support team,
1989-Present: Artist/Designer/owner: Girardini Fine Art and Design: Painting and mixed media, Digital photography and product marketing using Photoshop, Lightroom and Indesign. Functional steel furniture and accessory design, steel sculpture.
Exhibitions:
Shows: 1981 to present -Work created and produced with Julie Girardini
American Craft Council shows since 1981
Crafts America: Washington Craft Show
American Craft Exposition Show: Evanston, IL 2004 – 2012
Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show 2013-2015
Galleries and Collections: 2001 - 2014 (Selected)
Allegheny Arts Council Gallery: 2-person show: 2001
Embassy of the United States, Ottawa Canada Permanent Collection
Zenith Gallery: Exhibiting Artist 2004-2016
Gallery 555dc: two-person show 2011
Awards:
1995 Maryland State Arts Council – Individual Artist Award; Sculpture
2005 Maryland State Arts Council – Individual Artist Award; Painting
2007 Selected to represent Maryland in a 25th anniversary exhibit with sister city, Kanagawa, Japan
2012 Maryland State Arts Council – Individual Artist Award; Photography
2014 Maryland State Arts Council – Individual Artist Award; Craft
PUBLICATIONS:
NY Times; Home and Design Magazine; American Craft Magazine; Washington Post: Review of Zenith Gallery Show
COMMISSIONS and COLLECTIONS: (selected)
United Christian Parrish of Reston, VA; Steel and Glass Sculpture
Individual Portraits (mixed media)
Commissions; Steel Furniture, Lighting and Fireplace Surrounds
Individual and Corporate Collectors; Sculpture and Painting