Today we’d like to introduce you to Russ Connell.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I graduated from The University of North Texas in 2012 with a degree in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design. Towards the end of school I started an apprenticeship with Larry Whiteley, a local metal sculptor who works primarily in a larger scale using traditional blacksmithing methods. By the time I was finished with school I didn’t really have any interest in jewelry but instead focused on creating large scale sculpture. I developed an interest in public art and abstract design. I feel pieces are the most dynamic when they’re displayed publicly. I actively participate in several art on loan programs including Art on Henderson here in Dallas, as well as similar programs in Boerne, Wichita Falls, and Nacogdoches. I’ve done several permanent large scale works around Dallas including the outdoor pieces at One Main, as well as a feature accent wall on the 2nd story ballroom. Most recently I’ve completed my largest work to date, a 24′ sculpture weighing 10,000 located at Hall Park in Frisco. I also did a feature accent wall for the inside of their new office building, consisting of around 1000 flower pieces that were all hand hammered and formed. I also am currently exhibiting my first feature show titled “Nice to Meet You” located at Craighead Green Gallery here in Dallas. I’ve been represented by them for around a year at this point and I’m looking forward to expanding representation across the country.
Please tell us about your art.
My biggest passion is creating large scale sculpture. It’s both a physical and mental challenge to create a structure so much larger than myself. I feel these pieces are the most dynamic, and I really enjoy the aspect of displaying them in public areas where people can interact with them. I work primarily in Steel but have recently begun expanding into Stainless Steel and cast Bronze pieces. I hope to inspire creativity in others, much the same way I feel inspired to create when viewing other artists’ works. Public work to me means that the art is created for everyone rather than just one individual. Each day someone new gets to view the work and derive their own meaning from it. I think that’s why I’m most drawn to large, colorful, public pieces.
Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
I don’t know if the role has necessarily changed, people have always looked to art for creativity and inspiration. I hope I can inspire those feelings through others when they view my work. My work is an exploration of self, challenges that I can overcome and feelings I try to express through abstract shapes.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I’m currently represented at Craighead Green Gallery here in Dallas. My work is also on display at One Main Place (Westin Hotel), as well as Hall Park in Frisco. I have several pieces on display around Coppell. I also have a piece in the Art on Henderson sculpture walk. I love creating and taking on new projects and commissions and encourage anyone with an idea for their space to reach out to me!
Contact Info:
- Address: Craighead Green Gallery
1011 Dragon Street
Dallas, TX 75207 - Website: www.russconnell.com
- Phone: 512-569-4407
- Email: connell.russ@gmail.com
- Instagram: russ_connell
Image Credit:
Photos are by Kyle Pennington
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