D I S T I N C T L Y M O N T A N A M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G 2 0 1 9
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YOUR CHOICE OF ARTISTIC MEDIUM IS UNUSUAL. WHAT
PROMPTED YOUR INTEREST IN CONCRETE AS A MEANS OF
EXPRESSION?
I spent 24 years creating a large garden including
mortaring rocks and bricks in garden areas. I always have
Portland cement in my garden shed and a pile of sand on
the property. One fall day in 2015 I wanted to create art
for my garden. I turned to what I had on hand and what
I knew would weather well. ere was no preplanning for
that first piece which was very primitive. I show it in my
studio as people enjoy seeing the evolution of my art.
WE WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE HEADS. WHERE DOES
THIS INSPIRATION COME FROM?
I have always been drawn to the subject of faces in their simplest form. No color
needed, because in statues, form reveals all. My exception is the eyes which are full
color and realistic. e man in the moon and sun faces I have always appreciated.
My choice to include many cultural faces is a result of my international travels and
experiencing native people.
Many pieces are inspired by an item. A hat from the 1940s, antique gold rimmed
glasses, an antique metal clamp, antlers, antique pieces of chain.
en I decide how to relate these items to a person.
PLEASE WALK US THROUGH YOUR PROCESS WHEN CREATING WITH CONCRETE.
Because I have to work fast and concrete starts curing immediately, I plan ahead
what I am going to make and what will be incorporated in the piece. ere is no
time to look around when I am in the middle of creating a piece and my hands are
covered in concrete. Yes, I wear tight fitting gloves. I have a variety of items at hand,
as I am not so committed to a concept to not allow it to go another way.
" Concrete is so organic and blends well with
Studio Gallery
ecious Firewood
Beware
Barbara Liss
