The exhibit, "In Perfect Balance -- Art in Motion," featuring new kinetic mobile sculptures by Little Rock artist Gerald Lee Delavan, will be displayed during July in Alison Parsons Gallery, 802 Central Ave. A special reception will be held from 5-9 p.m. Friday, in conjunction with Gallery Walk, and Delavan will be present to speak with guests.
A visual experience of balanced parts, constantly changing forms, and spatial relationships, Delavan's mobiles offer a new perspective with every changing moment. Utilizing natural elements and simple materials, he creates mobile sculptures of beauty and, oftentimes, humor.
Each configuration is made up of natural, found and created components that come together serendipitously, carving their own space in air. Delavan considers natural materials the "soul" of his pieces.
Aluminum, copper tubing, and copper wire provide the structural framework for the mobiles. Over time, some of the materials have morphed into different roles in the work. For example, the copper wire used to secure objects might also become whimsical animated creatures such as birds and fish.
"The structural design of a mobile is limited in a certain sense, so the materials and the movement become the outlet for creativity. I began experimenting with elements of balance, movement and spatial relationships in the creation of art. I was intrigued by the possibilities of the mobile form," Delavan said in a news release. "All are designed to entertain ... some to make you smile, some to draw a laugh, and all hopefully to gladden the heart."
His artist career began in the 1980s, when a fascination with kinetic art, combined with his extensive knowledge of natural materials as a professional geologist, led him to research and examine the complexities and technical challenges of building mobiles, both large and small. He holds a master's degree in geology from the University of Arkansas and has studied jewelry design and metal sculpture at the Arkansas Arts Center. His mobiles and metal sculptures have been included in select state and regional art exhibits.
Call Alison Parsons, 655-0604, for more information.
Entertainment on 07/01/2015