Jason Millward

Artist Statement

"My sculptural work has a direct relationship to the rich tradition which utilizes human form as its primary means of communication and visual exploration. This tradition employs body language and gesture to convey emotion and ideas. Even my amorphous work begins as an idea from a figurative gesture. Rather than executing a naturalistic body, I simplify and stylize the figures, focusing on the concept and aesthetics of the piece. To do so, I emphasize certain formal elements in the design: concave and convex planes juxtapose to intensify light and shadow. Shapes are made by a continuity of line, creating a sense of movement. Smooth and rough textures bring energy and contrast to the surface. I employ these visual elements hoping to develop a spiritual and universal context rather than a corporeal rendering of the subject. I’m more interested in the struggle within the mind and spirit than the physical appearance of the individuals going through them." - Jason P. Millward

Sculpted in clay and cast in bronze, Enrapture is a female figure which has been stylized with flat planes and straight lines to make patterns throughout the piece, to creating a dynamic energy. I created this bronze to show my students in Figure Sculpture an example of how to stylize the human form through abstraction with simple elements of art.

Inner Musings is carved in Honeycomb Calcite in a spiraling composition which inspires the viewer to contemplate inner thoughts and the treasured time of musing.

Bio

Jason started sculpting from a young age and quickly realized this would be his life’s work. Early in his career, he was trained in traditional, classical techniques which serve as a basis for his current, contemporary style. After studying in France for a summer in 2008 he decided to enroll at the university and acquired a BFA and MFA in sculpture. Jason enjoys teaching at the university but his passion lies with stone carving. “Each piece is a discovery waiting to happen. I work with the stone to find the design nature has already begun. When I finally discover the sculpture trapped within the stone it is always a special moment for me.” Jason has a studio and stone yard in American Fork Utah where he resides with his lovely wife Devon, daughter MaiLyn and son Jensen.