Richard Feese
I am an avid backpacker, fisherman and bird hunter and this is always a source of ideas for my art.
My interest in environmental issues and concern for preserving the wilderness occupies a major part of my work and life. My ideas, visions, and concepts incorporate concerns about water, endangered species, threatened species, native species, all of which contribute the health and well being of the earth and its inhabitants.
My pieces are statements about identity, which come from the streams, the mountains, and the environment. They are related to my past work, the three or four pieces in progress, and the work yet to come.
The materials used are often found objects worn by nature, which are not only intrinsic to the image, but statements by themselves. Many of the materials I use for my sculptures are recycled materials and found objects; the wood, metals and leftover building materials prove to be a durable medium and some of the pieces can be placed outdoors.
The content of the work is about preservation and respect of different species and the land where they live, and also contains elements that are personal; the discoveries about life made during my travels.
These are collectable art objects that emulate life and the mysteries of our world, the known and the unknown.
Since my work is intricate it causes the viewer to become involved and participate in the work, as they have to take the time to look closely to see the details. Several of my pieces have maps and trails of my backpacking trips to the high country. The images of birds and fish usually have a comic undertone, which is inherent in all species, a valuable reminder that joy and laughter are a necessary part of all life.
Work by This Artist
7”H x 14.5”W x 32”D
Recycled Materials
2016
The Harbor Seal has a coot riding on its back. The fins and tail are made out of old oars. Harbor seals used to be very common in California. At the Crocker Museum in Sacramento, CA, I saw Benjamin Bufano’s Harbor Seal carved out of bronze and I was inspired to make my own.
20”H x 9.5”W x15”D
Recycled Materials
2015
The snowy owl lives mostly in Alaska. It’s feathers turn brown in the summer. The snowy owl’s whiskers are made from paintbrushes and the artist’s photo is hidden in its wings.
9”H x 8”W x 14D”
Recycled Materials
2014
The Tricolored Blackbird is an endangered species. It is found in the California Central Valley and this blackbird has a topographical map on its wings of its habitat.
26”H x 8”W x 9”D
Recycled Materials
2014
Great Horned Owls are majestic birds which are often found nesting in barns and abandoned structures. They are night flyers. This owl’s eyes are made from light bulbs and the nose is from a deer antler. Since owls can rotate their heads almost 360 degrees, I have put another set of eyes in the back of his head.