Changethethought™

Besides having a damn cool name, Ellwood T. Risk is one fine artist. I stopped by the Santa Monica Airport Artwalk this weekend, an event where permanent artists who work out of a converted airport hanger, opened their doors for a few hours and let people check out their work. The work of E. T. Risk was by far the standout for me. In his own words:

In December of 2002, Rolling Stone Magazine ran a full page ad featuring a blood stained pair of glasses set against the back drop of a hazy New York City skyline.  At the top of the page read this statistic…..’Over 676,000 people have been killed by guns in the U.S.A. since John Lennon was shot and killed on December 8, 1980.’

The use of handguns to create art is a concept I’ve been exploring since January of 2002. With all due respect, I must tip my hat to the likes of Sigmar Polke, Hunter S. Thompson, and William S. Burroughs; though the actual inspiration for this body of work must be attributed to my Father and his invitation to join him for a day at the firing range during the Christmas of 2001.

Having worked with guns and targets to the point of some familiarity I still find myself reacting to this strange set of tools with a healthy combination of anxiety and excitement. The concept of using what I view to be tools of destruction, to create works of art, continues to be the driving force behind my desire to explore this particular body of work.

Needless to say, the opportunities for metaphor are plentiful. As for the specific meaning of any piece, I ask the viewer to process the information therein for themselves and relate to it as they like, unencumbered by my own intentions. 

His mediums and materials include Pistol Targets, H K .40 caliber semi automatic pistol, Glock 17 9mm semi automatic pistol, and Resin.

That pretty much sums it up. I’m in no way a fan of guns, except when used artistically to make a point.

If you’re in the LA area (Santa Monica specifically) drop by his space. In the meantime, check out his work at ellwoodtrisk.com.

written by Adam Lorber | tags: Art, Ellwood T. Risk, Pistol Targets