Mark Gottschalk
Currently, my work explores what I call transparent liquid color. Brilliant colors and hues blended into crystal clear resin produce both random and controlled color that keeps its liquid appearance when set. The designs emphasize streamlined forms, clean shapes, and simple lines reminiscent of pieces from the Art Deco movement. There is a wonderful play between the hard edge of the metal, form, and color.
I have worked in hard edge and color-field paintings, shaped canvas, wall-hung and free-standing sculptures, and kinetic works using mechanical and natural movements, from machines that move on overhead trollies to tall metal reeds that move in unison with the smallest amount of wind. More recently, my mahogany and polished metal fish are reminiscent of the 50s and 60s glory years of the magnificent wooden power boats of the era.
Gottschalk creates his pieces on computerized machinery. Once the rough wood shapes are laminated, he shapes them by hand to the desired result. The mahogany pieces are dyed and lacquered, and the aluminum is machined, cut, polished, or brushed. Bold Transparent pigments are blended to color the most recent designs, which are then highlighted with a coat of crystal clear VOC resin.
Gottschalk received his BFA degree from Minneapolis College of Art and Design, where he studied under light artist Cork Marcheski and sculptor Dick Graham. While at MCAD, Gottschalk worked under George Morrison to create Morrison's "Red Totems."