Faith in a Seed: Philip McCracken’s Sculpture and Mixed-Media Painting

February 27, 2016 - June 5, 2016

Lightcatcher Building

February 27 – June 5, 2016, Lightcatcher Building

Philip McCracken; Sprout, 1973; Bronze, 3.75 x 4 x 2 in. Collection of the artist.

Philip McCracken; Sprout, 1973; Bronze, 3.75 x 4 x 2 in. Collection of the artist.

Opening Reception: Fri., Feb. 26, 2016, 5 – 7 PM, Lightcatcher Building

Curated by Barbara Matilsky

Faith in a Seed: Philip McCracken’s Sculpture and Mixed-Media Painting surveys nature’s inspiration on one of the Pacific Northwest’s most distinguished artists. McCracken, born in Bellingham in 1928, studied with British sculptor Henry Moore (1898-1986) in Hertfordshire and created diverse works that embrace both realism and abstraction, time-honored materials such as wood and bronze, and newer media such as resin and epoxy. 

 

From animal sculptures to witty interpretations of contemporary life, McCracken has forged his own path, inspired by the writings of the nineteenth century philosopher Henry David Thoreau whose posthumous book, Faith in a Seed (1993), suggested the title for this show. Like Thoreau, McCracken celebrates the wonders of nature and captures its  beauty in his work. This exhibition presents a wide spectrum of the artist’s sculpture and mixed-media painting, dating from 1952 through 2013, and underscores the duality of tradition and innovation at the heart of his career.

“Though I do not believe

that a plant will spring up

where no seed has been,

I have great faith in a seed.

Convince me that you have a seed there,

and I am prepared to expect wonders.”

– Henry David Thoreau