Influenced by Neolithic stone forms, South Carolina artist Roger Halligan uses a variety of materials to create his freestanding and wall mounted sculptures.
Artist: Born in Troy, NY, Halligan grew up in the Hudson River Valley. He received a BA in economics from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, and after graduation began taking art courses at Syracuse University.
His first sculpture course redirected his career. Halligan headed to the University of Georgia, where he studied and received a MFA in studio arts.
Not wanting to teach but to “make things,” Halligan joined the newly formed exhibit design department of the North Carolina Zoological Park, where his design and build work created naturalistic habitats for both North American and African animals.
For his work on the Sonora Desert Pavilion, he was awarded the State of North Carolina Governor’s Award for Excellence..
After nearly 15 years, Halligan left the zoo to pursue his own art more intensely. However, he was asked to return for a one-year artist in residence, where he was commissioned to create a large standing stone sculpture for the zoo.
Studio: Chenoweth . Halligan Studios & Front Gallery is in Lake City, SC. The artist shares the space with his artist wife, Jan Chenoweth.
Art & materials:
- For sculptural pieces: Steel, Portland concrete products, wood, specialty paints and stains ($1,500 to $27,000).
- For drawings: Graphite, charcoal and pastels ($250 to $1,500).
Inspirations:
- Neolithic stones, like those in Ireland and Cornwall.
- An interest in how humans handle the physical and/or psychological boundaries we encounter.
Recent honors: Invited to participate in the John Henry Sculpture Invitational at Sculpture Fields in Chattanooga, TN.
Recent projects:
- Installation of his “Terminus V” as the first permanent outdoor sculpture in the newly renovated Park Circle, in North Charleston, SC.
- Participating artist in 2024 Artfields festival in Lake City. Through May 4.
What’s next: A series of mixed-media drawings focusing on the meaning of the phrase “red lining,” as in the speedometer’s needle was red lining.
Where to buy: Chenoweth . Halligan Studios in Lake City. Open by appointment (423-280-0531) or for special events.
Get social:
- Instagram: @roger.halligan and @chenowethhalliganstudios
- Website: rogerhalligan.com
