See my work at:
Madison & Main Gallery
927 16th St, Greeley, CO
&
Blue Moose Gallery in Ft Collins, CO.
My Background
My Inspiration
My Background
I did not consider myself very artistic in my youth. But as an adult I ended up co-owning and working in a unique 3D sculpture and fabrication studio called Big3D Productions, Inc. for 10 of its 25 years in business. We created intricate one-of-a-kind 3D signage, large-scale sculptures for public art projects and massive artistic reliefs
I did not consider myself very artistic in my youth. But as an adult I ended up co-owning and working in a unique 3D sculpture and fabrication studio called Big3D Productions, Inc. for 10 of its 25 years in business. We created intricate one-of-a-kind 3D signage, large-scale sculptures for public art projects and massive artistic reliefs for highway sound walls across the nation. I worked on the technical end of the fabrication process - including hands-on welding and CNC router operation - more than the design end. This is where my appreciation for 3D art blossomed. This is also where I discovered I had artistic abilities of my own. I have been growing as an artist ever since. I consider my current wrapped rock art to be part of this journey.
Thank you for your interest in my work.
Kat Bethna
My Medium
My Inspiration
My Background
Much of the 3D work that influences me now can be found in the pattern work and textures of primitive Aboriginal, African and Asian art forms. The rocks you see in my work are gathered from every corner of the Colorado region and there is a memory attached to each and every one of them for me. I started out learning intricate knot work f
Much of the 3D work that influences me now can be found in the pattern work and textures of primitive Aboriginal, African and Asian art forms. The rocks you see in my work are gathered from every corner of the Colorado region and there is a memory attached to each and every one of them for me. I started out learning intricate knot work from others but soon began dreaming up my own knots. (I am sure it helps that I joined in the macrame craze of the 1980s too!) I delight in figuring out new and unusual ways to add embellishments to these little jewels. I enjoy the challenge of the complex knot work as well as finding the perfect combination of rock, embellishment and leather cord. Getting that pairing "just right" is so satisfying for me.
My Inspiration
My Inspiration
My Inspiration
I have pondered the universal appeal of these adorned rocks many times. The common response seems almost primal - as if we instinctively recognize their symbolism.
Any ancient people with the time, energy and imagination to create such artifacts must be by definition safe, fed and sheltered. Visualize the clan sitting around a fire with t
I have pondered the universal appeal of these adorned rocks many times. The common response seems almost primal - as if we instinctively recognize their symbolism.
Any ancient people with the time, energy and imagination to create such artifacts must be by definition safe, fed and sheltered. Visualize the clan sitting around a fire with their bellies full, warm animal skins draped around their shoulders and their safety assured. They laugh and tell stories about the day's hunt or gathering as some members absent mindedly wrap beautiful rocks with intricate knots and embellishments. Piles of them gather in woven baskets for later use as way markers, trading for much needed supplies or given as cherished gifts to those they love and respect.
In whatever way these little treasures speak to you, this is the spirit in which they were created. They are small reminders that fulfilling, safe and happy times exist.
Kat Bethna