About
ABOUT BART WALTER
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
My art evolves from a passion for all living things. I strive to capture the essence of a living being; to explore some kernel of truth that may have gone unnoticed, and to depict an otherwise elusive moment in time. In my mind’s eye, I strip away all that is unnecessary, even as I build the sculpture with layer upon layer of clay. My goal is a distillation of the subject until only true essentials are left. If in so doing I can reveal some intangible spirit, make evident the soul of my subject, and communicate this in my art, then I have accomplished something real.ARTIST’S BIOGRAPHY
A full-time sculptor for three decades, Bart Walter is primarily known for his unique and dynamic approach to surface. Now, at the beginning of the 21st century, his work can be found in notable public and private collections worldwide: be it in the museum, gallery, or zoo, his art is exhibited in myriad locations. Many unique commission works in bronze sculpture have been sought by collectors and institutions over the years as well.
Bart Walter travels extensively to pursue honest interpretations of his subjects, from lions and chimpanzees to more local North American wildlife. Sculpting and drawing directly from life allows him to infuse vitality and spontaneity into his work. Continuing the tradition of earlier animaliers such as Barye and Bugatti, Bart has transcended their reliance on the taxidermist table and the zoo by sculpting directly from the natural world.
Working from his personal drawings, clay and wax field studies, Bart embraces a figurative, representational style that eschews the minute in favor of the whole–the spirit of the animal. Bart’s renderings are derived from a personal commitment to the integrity of each subject. When casting in bronze, Bart’s hands-on approach results in sculptures that are faithful to the original work. With this holistic view of inspiration, creation and casting, Bart Walter has won the respect and admiration of fine art curators, collectors and the general public.
The Studio of Bart Walter is located in Westminster, Maryland. The artist can be reached through the studio.
