For more than 30 years, Georgia’s Kipley A. Meyer has worked in wood. Originally, the self-taught artist made furniture. But 10 years ago, Meyer turned to wood wall sculpture in a style he calls organic contemporary.
The artist: Meyer grew up in Decatur, GA, and attended DeKalb Community College. He first studied music, then business. In 1997, he moved to Madison and built a workshop/studio near his house.
Goods & materials: Wall and free-standing sculptures are made of poplar with a milk paint and wax patina. Works feature carved lines and circles and often nails, staples and washers as accents.
What’s popular: Large pieces, three feet by five feet long ($3,000 to $6,000).
Other favorites: Mini sculptures, six inches by six inches ($175).
Inspirations: The seemingly random forms in nature; ancient cultures; and the concepts of connection and communication.
Unusual request: “Does that come in blue?”
Big break: Exhibited at the highly competitive and prestigious American Craft Council show in Baltimore in 2009. “I thought I had arrived,” he said.
Claim to fame: “For me ‘fame’ is being able to serve others through my art and being sought and collected by so many,” said Meyer. “That brings me immense joy.”
Awards: Many, including awards from the St. Louis Art Fair, Asheville Fine Art Show, 4 Bridges Arts Festival (TN) and Piedmont Craftsman.
Where to buy: www.kipleyameyer.com and Artful Home (artfulhome.com)
Get social at: makesstuffouttawood on instagram
