Colorado Art RanchPhoto: David Peterson
 

 

hokeBland Hoke

Sculptor
Jackson, WY

Bland Hoke was born and raised in Jackson WY, and received a Bachelor Fine Arts from Alfred University. He is interested in the concept of up-cycling, which creates value from materials that would otherwise be discarded. Bland's work consists of large-scale installations and functional sculptures that push the capabilities and alter the context of cast-off resources.

About the DIA Project
I encountered a moment of obligation upon witnessing the quantity of waste produced in an industrial manufacturing operation. The constant stream of nifty shapes piled high in a roll-off dumpster was astonishing and opened my eyes to an abundant opportunity. I have found purpose and inspiration in this open-ended waste stream and actively seek strange and exotic scraps produced from industrial operations to utilize in artistic endeavors. 

Up-cycling is the process of converting waste into a product of greater value. The term was coined in the book, 'Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things' by William McDonough & Michael Braungart. I stumbled across this concept in the midst of questioning the purpose and function of art in society. Up-cycling has provided a moral and practical outlook on material use and sculpture.

 The material used in this display is sequin scrap, the by-product of making shiny dots for dresses and ornament. The form is inspired by Tara Donovan, who uses everyday materials in abundance to create artwork which transcends the normalcy of a single plastic cup or drinking straw. The combined result of her work is a wonderful display of ingenuity and simplicity.  I am inspired by Donovan’s work, but depart from it with the use of industrial waste as an inspiration and cause for action.

I strive to create a symbiotic relationship between a producer of waste material and the resulting work of art. As a catalyst for change, this approach to material use is beneficial in exhibiting the creative possibilities of discarded resources.

 The goal of this project is to educate, inform and inspire action. Take some time to visit www.upcyclinginstitute.org to participate in crowd sourced ideas for creative reuse of exotic and interesting garbage.

 


 

  

33 IDEAS!, an exhibit of art, writing and ideas
March 15-June 15, 2010

Denver International Airport

DIA PostcardThis exhibit showcases visual and literary artists associated with Colorado Art Ranch as presenters, artists in residence, or Nomads at one or more Artposia. The artists were selected because they use their passion, skills, knowledge, and talent to ask questions and react to the world around them. The work, in turn, inspires us to ask questions and view the world from different perspectives.

33 IDEAS! is on display at the Ansbacher Hall: The Art of Colorado, on the walkway between the terminal and A Gates before the security screening. The hall is accessible for everyone’s enjoyment.

For more information contact DIA Art Program at
(303) 342-2521 or visit www.flydenver.com/art

 

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