Color Maps of the Wild - Elk Habits 2.1

This is Chuck Brenton

My creative process is deeply immersed in the untamed wilderness of Colorado's Rocky Mountains, drawing inspiration from the inherent structure of habitats and the intricate patterns found within them. Mountainous forms, vibrant colors, and data converge, revealing how I interpret and internalize these captivating environments.

Through fieldwork expeditions, I document wildlife species' behavior using journaling, drawing, and photography. This personal observation is further translated into digital studies that are complemented by technological developments like GPS collar information and satellite imagery which inform areas of study and guide the creation of terrain forms. In my work, data becomes an indispensable medium.

The land-use data that captures the interplay between animals and the ecosystem, intersect with various elements of the landscape. Together, they are visually portrayed on the surface of the sculptures, where a juxtaposition of chaos and order unfolds. This process involves the application of a specialized polymer paint by hand, followed by a protective ceramic clear coating. The surface is then sanded and cured to achieve a smooth and glass-hard finish. The fusion of contemporary techniques with the elemental essence of bronze blends innovation and tradition.