Accidental Sculptors Share Insights on Creativity at Groundbreaking Symposium

The Sedona Artists’ Consortium recently held its inaugural Sculptors’ Symposium at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre, featuring a panel of esteemed artists moderated by Linda Goldenstein, owner of Goldenstein Gallery. Notable participants included Ken Rowe, Erik Petersen, Susan Kliewer, Chris Navarro, and James Muir. The event, which took place on May 13, attracted a crowd of around 50 attendees.

Skip Daum, a retired lobbyist who relocated to Sedona from California eight months ago, spearheaded the consortium. “I’ve been a modest collector,” he stated, recalling how a captivating bronze artwork sparked his passion for art. “I stumbled into this world and realized I had a connection to art that I never knew existed.”

Daum’s vision for the consortium is to foster connections among artists and the public. “I approached several artists, introducing myself as a newcomer in town, and expressed my admiration for their work,” he shared. His outreach seems to have paid off, as the symposium received an unexpectedly warm reception.

The symposium provided a platform for the artists to share their unique journeys and the serendipitous nature of their artistic careers. Rowe, for instance, recounted how his initial foray into taxidermy laid the groundwork for his eventual role as a sculptor. “I took a college course in sculpture and it changed my life,” he explained, emphasizing the significance of guidance and exploration in one’s artistic path.

Petersen reflected on his entry into the art world, crediting serendipity for his job at a bronze foundry. “It wasn’t planned,” he admitted, “but it became a fulfilling part of my life.” Notably, he has dedicated 27 years to mastering the art of patina, finding it a deeply creative process.

Kliewer and Navarro also shared their distinct artistic beginnings, illustrating the diverse paths that lead to sculpture. Navarro was inspired after encountering a high-priced work that motivated him to create his own sculptures. “Winning a blue ribbon at the county fair lit a spark in me,” he said, reflecting on the rewards of following one’s passion.

Muir, on the other hand, described discovering his artistic calling later in life after previously working in various fields. “Sculpting gave me a mission,” he expressed, noting the profound impact of his first piece.

The symposium emphasized the importance of live reference in artistic work. Rowe’s experience handling a live grizzly bear transformed his approach to sculpting. “I could see the true scale and strength of the animal,” he remarked, highlighting how direct experience can elevate artistic authenticity.

Throughout the event, the artists reflected on essential qualities for success: faith, confidence, and a bit of ignorance. As Navarro summarized, “These traits apply equally to bullriding and art.” Muir underscored the significance of specialization, while Petersen raised concern over challenges in finding dedicated labor in the art community.

In contrast, Petersen shared a positive anecdote about a young artist, Natalie, who had demonstrated exceptional promise and work ethic at a young age. “Some young people are willing to work hard,” he noted, reinforcing a glimmer of hope for the future of the art industry.

Daum concluded by coining the acronym SMART: “Sedona Means Art,” emphasizing the integral role of art in the region’s cultural and economic landscape. The symposium marks a promising beginning for the artists’ community in Sedona, and anticipations are high for future gatherings.