Name:  Norman Pirollo

Medium:  The medium I work with is wood, sometimes combined with metal

Background:  I was formerly in the Computer Industry and had set up a wood studio a few years ago to begin working with wood full time. I have a computer science background and a Cabinetmaking Diploma. I have also studied with leading woodworkers from across North America at a fine woodworking school. I would also say that I am self-taught in the decorative and visual arts. In recent years I have immersed myself into the world of art and studied the lives and careers of many artists as well as understanding the formative years of periods of art and sculpture.

How long have you been a sculptor?  I have been woodworking for approximately 18 years. I began sculpting wood in 2009… so I would say about 4 years now.

Why did you start sculpting?  My training and background is in fine woodworking and furniture creation where high precision is necessary. My work involves much use of hand tools and I found I could transfer these skills to sculpting wood. I was also seeking an outlet for my creativity where precision and accurate measurements are not necessary. I wanted to create free-form objects and sculptural work fit this definition nicely.

What inspires you?  I am inspired by organic shapes. I like to incorporate curves in my sculptural work. I live out in the country and there are interesting rock formations on our property. I often use these shapes as inspiration for designs. I also seek out objects we are familiar with and create a wood rendition complete with color. My work is conceptual in nature.

What is your favourite sculpture?  I like many different sculptures in different mediums. I love to see colourful glass work, stone sculptures and hybrid sculptures which incorporate more than one medium.

Which sculptures will you be exhibiting at Dimensions 2013?  I will be exhibiting a series of three sculptures. Each of the sculptures has different dimensions but the theme will be consistent. The theme is “Flame”. Each of the sculptures portrays a conceptual shape of a “Flame”.

What will you be working on in the coming year?  I continue to work on this new series of sculptures, as well I am beginning a new series once the Dimensions show is over. I have the ideas and preliminary sketches for this new series which I have been working on this past summer. I also combine sculpture with the creation of wall art and the design and creation of unique, one of a kind furniture. All this tends to keep me busy but I allow for serene periods to invigorate my creativity.