This Place, Everywhere, 2019. Bronze and stainless steel, 18 x 13 x 13 ft. View of work installed at the Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Dallas. Photo: Paul Go Images
Celebrated sculptor James Surls, recipient of the 2020 Lifetime Achievement in Contemporary Sculpture Award, epitomizes a career spanning nearly six decades. His sculptures, rendered in wood, bronze, and steel, not only mirror his personal evolution but also traverse the boundary between nature and human introspection. Hailing from East Texas, Surls imbibed the essence of nature and diligence, which resonate in his creations. His sculptures are more than art; they encapsulate frozen moments, urging viewers to reflect and connect with the natural world on a profound level.
Surls' sculptures seamlessly weave the threads of personal and universal realms. Noteworthy pieces like "This Place, Everywhere" stand as markers of Surls' inner journey while also resonating as symbols of the shared human experience. His works exude authenticity, each narrating a distinct story.
Throughout his career, Surls has navigated the art market's fluctuations, testament to his belief in art's transformative potential. In a world marked by divisions, Surls contends that genuine art transcends words and ideologies, touching the essence of our shared humanity. His sculptures are timeless narratives, unveiling the complexity, contradictions, and infinite beauty of the human journey.