Terry Turrell is a self-taught sculptor and painter.

"My paintings and my sculpture are a natural progression of each other. The surface texture of both plays a major role in the final result. At this point, my work continues to be figurative in nature.

The painting process begins by taking a flat surface, preferably wood or metal, and rubbing paint at random until it is covered. I do this several times, using only my hands, to build up layers of semi-dried paint. As the painting evolves into abstract shapes I begin to look for images. Once I establish rough forms, I define them and work with the image that emerges. I always work on several pieces simultaneously to keep the images fluid.

When working on sculpture the process is very similar. I generally start by carving the head and work with the face to find the emotion I want to convey. I interchange parts, i.e. arms, legs etc., until I find the right combination. The layering of the paint, like the paintings, is an important part of each piece.

For some time now I have been interested in paper and metal together. The delicacy and strength of the two mediums appeal to me. I am also going through a transformation with patinas and paints, experimenting with watercolors protected by wax. Acrylics are a recent addition.

On occasion, an entire vision for a piece will come to me before I start a painting or sculpture, but I consider these small gifts which do not happen very often. Rather, ideas for my work come from an endless variety of sources very little of that being art-related. Listening to music is a constant backdrop. I enjoy painting and sculpting equally.

I never intentionally set out to make statements of any kind. The outcome of a given work is usually as new to me as to the viewer. The emotion created is important.
I strive to create compassion, humility, humor, and a serious edge. I let both mediums choose the way and allow me to follow."

- Terry Turrell