JUNKER STUDIO METAL SCULPTURE PROPOSAL
We intially loved this work because of its difference from the traditional mural approach. The materials will weather and age naturally, presenting a changing play of light and shadow against the wall. It will also reate something of permanent value for our community which can be relocated if there is ever need.
In the end we worked with Payne and Elise to have the final drawings be more reflective of us as a community and incorporate some color.
We think you will love it!
ABOUT THE PROPOSED WORK
From the Artists:
Artwork will be cut from 3/16 inch and 11 gauge A606 Corten Sheet Steel. The panels will be torch cut in sections, and are designed to be fastened in specific points for continuity and stability. Details can be added and subtracted as design process plays out. The vertical figures along the piece create a opposing tension, but also give the long horizontal shapes a place to attach and ‘rest’. Panels will be mounted with spacers a minimum of 1⁄2 inch from surface of wall.
Panel 1 (Above) The first panel highlights nature, which formed the mountains, the gorges and river basin to create this beautiful area. We follow the Deerfield River headwaters from State Forest land, by Somerset and Harriman reservoirs, to the Molly Stark scenic byway. This is an integral part of this ecosystem, as is the abundance of water. This wilderness area is an import draw for visitors offering recreation (depicted by hikers, kayaks) in all seasons, as well as supporting a diverse population of wildlife. (bear, moose, hawks, beaver, loon) This first panel is 30ft x 5 ft.
Panel 2 (Right) Historically, trees became a vital part of the Deerfield basin's economy, bringing logging and trains to the valleys and mountain passes. In the second panel, a train hauls logs across a river chasm, eventually leading to the river and crossroads of Wilmington. A mill evokes the industries that flourished along the river. Panel 2 is 30ft x 6ft
Panel 3 (left) The sugar house depicts oncoming spring, with the light and temperatures changing, and wildlife emerging. Most sugaring is a local, family affair, carried on through the generations. Panel 3 is 20 ft x 6ft.
Panel 4 (Below) The last panel evokes the town of Wilmington, old and new, nestled under the Haystack Mountain range. Panel 4 is 23ft x 7ft. As requested by members of the community, a light patina wash will be applied to some areas of the work.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Payne and Elise Junker met at a craft fair in Wilmington, and have always had a deep affection for the town.
Working out of their studio in Chester, Vermont, their work combines Elise's love of American folk art with Payne's traditional blacksmithing.
Payne's exploration of metal working began in a high school class and continued after college when he began to sell his work at craft fairs and exhibit in galleries. Recreating the craft of traditional metal smithing and modern technology, along with design concepts from early American, Shaker , Art Nouveau to Arts and Craft traditions, Payne has created his own unique signature metal work.
Decorative American Folk Art captured Elise's imagination while in college studying for a career in dance. She has worked in many mediums: surface painting, stencils, and textile printing. She was Inspired by artists such as Peter Hunt, Adele Bishop and her own Grandmother, who created beautiful embroidery in traditional Hungarian patterns. She supported herself as a dancer by by selling her work at small fairs and craft shows.
Starting with an acetelyne torch, they fist made simple folk figures for weathervanes and wall art. Together they have designed and built garden gates, chandeliers, railings, hardware and fireplace doors, as well as signature wall art and weathervanes. The weathervane atop the Guilford Vermont Welcome Center (and corresponding VT seal at the front counter), custom chandelier for the American fly Fishing Museum , and the Franklin County Courthouse railings are among the larger projects they have completed. They have also won numerous awards , such as the league of NH Craftsmen 'Best in Show' award for their trout garden bench and 'Tribute to Woodstock' life size Moose sculpture.