About Steven Alden Carpenter

For those of us who are drawn to stone, what is the attraction? Is it in its strength, durability, or agelessness? Or maybe in the varied shapes, textures, and color? Is it in the seductive earthy smell? Perhaps it is more than a merely physical or tangible connection. Maybe it is something we relate to on a more supernatural or sacred level. Certainly people in all cultures, all over the world, and throughout history, have experienced a complex connection with stone.

I have been involved with some form of artwork for most of my life. My introduction to stone came about while I was working as a landscaper. I immediately recognized the creative potential to be found in the stones themselves, with their limitless variety of form, color, and texture. In 1995, being eager to explore its artistic possibilities, I put my energy into the stonework full time. The decision to follow this path had been as rewarding to me as anything I have done in my life. I particularly value the enthusiasm and appreciation for stone which many of my clients have shared with me. This has led to some lasting friendships, formed while our shared vision has evolved and come to fruition. Stonework fuels my creative instincts and my interest and passion for it continue to grow with each succeeding project I undertake.

When you introduce stone into your surroundings you are not only adding structure and balance to please the eye, you are laying the foundation for a natural environment in which a variety of plants, birds, and other small creatures may thrive. In my approach to stonework I draw instinctively on my background as an artist. Not only does it enhance my ability to create a pleasing composition in stone, it also allows me the insight to understand the individual character or 'spirit' of the location and how that character can be enhanced through the use of stone. I look for the final outcome of a project to be a pleasing combination of form and function, and beyond that, a work of art that is in harmony with the landscape.

Working in three dimensions made the move to sculpture a logical progression. When I work with stone, I always monitor how the light plays across its surface, changing the colors and textures. That same observation is so much a part of sculpting. Also, transforming a landscape with stone is very demanding physically. My increased awareness of muscle groups instilled in me an innate sense of how the human structure works and feels. Being aware of how the body performs becomes a great advantage when doing figurative sculpture.

When I knew I wanted to learn sculpting, I was lucky enough to find "Sanctuary Arts", an arts center run by sculptor Christopher Gowell in Eliot, Maine. Taking classes there and working with Christopher has been an important stimulus and force for motivation in my new-found medium.