The Gallery at Redlands Introduces Mark Hyde, Member of The Twelve

March Hare Ming Green Marble height 16″ $1800

The Gallery at Redlands is proud to introduce sculptor Mark Hyde of Forth Worth, Texas. We currently have three of his magnificent pieces on display in our lobby window, the one pictured above in Ming Green Marble along with a pair cut from Texas limestone. It has always been a desire of this gallery to include sculpture, and Mark is the first to step into this role.

Mark’s artistic odyssey has carried him through various media. A furniture maker by trade, he has been trained to cut with precision and confidence. However, stone was not his initial medium for expression. In years past, Mark has created work in ceramics, porcelain and mixed media. Later, he turned to wood and divided his time between sculpting in that material and making furniture.

Mark’s arrival at stone cutting is a fascinating story. An avid rock climber, he has had years of experience admiring the texture and form of massive rock formations. Ultimately he decided there were a number or advantages to sculpting in stone rather than wood. For one thing, stone sculpture can be displayed outdoors without fear of the natural elements deteriorating the material. But more important than this, Mark has found it difficult to secure large pieces of wood for sculpting, because our practical world lays claim to that material for furniture, architecture, or domestic construction projects. With stone, there is no problem; one can work with any size, no longer competing with carpenters, builders and architects.

Another reason Mark has come to favor stone cutting is because of its restriction to reductive carving. Though such a dynamic could create anxiety for artists paralyzed with the thought of making a mistake and ruining a piece, Mark finds considerably liberation in working directly with this material, often comparing it to the fearless activity of a jazz artist engaged in improv. Many times he begins with a general formal idea, but as he cuts, the sculpture seems to take on a life of its own, and like a jazz musician, Mark often finds himself spontaneously making a move on the rock and finding a pleasant surprise at the result.

The Gallery at Redlands is looking forward to our Opening Reception March 20 from 7-9 p.m. The Twelve will be together for the first time, and anticipate with gladness this opportunity to meet the public and celebrate the arts.

Thanks for reading, and we hope you will be able to join us in this festive celebration.

Mark, engaged with one of his works in Texas limestone.

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