Interview
Christopher Hynes
Christopher David Hynes attended Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida where he first experimented with scrap metal in a course led by fine artist and professor John Williams. “The Process I use to create my sculptures begins in the local junkyard. Sometimes the pieces are sketched out in advance with a preconceived notion as to what the final sculpture will become.” His latest works have recently been revolving around critically endangered species and constitute a mixed media approach to the design that reflects a fragility to the subject matter. These sculptures juxtapose the organic to inorganic by transitioning the form from the perfection of nature to the brutality of man-made metal. Hynes is one of the pioneers of the emerging scrap metal art form.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I attended Ringling School of Art & Design in Sarasota, FL with the intention of obtaining a degree in illustration. In my freshman year I was required to take a class in sculpting that completely changed my trajectory. One assignment was to go to a local junkyard and find parts to make a sculpture. I found an old carburetor and some copper wire and was inspired to make a fish with engine parts for the internal structures.”
What inspires you?
“Seeing things that test the imagination. I’m drawn towards things that have depth and beauty intertwined in ways that may have never been conceived before. I’m interested in the details of how and why things work, and the balance of the beauty of nature versus the brutality of man-made design.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I strive to combine the organic and the inorganic in a sort-of chaotic harmony. The themes revolve around conservation and perfection found in nature juxtaposed against the cold harshness of the mechanical. I attempt to showcase the inadequacies of technology compared to the beauty of nature in a manner that might gently remind and humble us humans as to our shortfalls.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work has mostly revolved around animals in general, however I am drawn towards endangered species as I feel the process exemplifies their plight. It adds a layer of depth and understanding when we realize that we as humans are limited in our abilities in creation, but yet there is hope for using the tools given to us to preserve the world around us. The question revolves around our determination to use them.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Without hesitation, I would say Professor John Williams. He was in charge of the sculpting department at Ringling and was the reason I switched my focus from illustration to sculpture. In those days, that segment of art was referred to as “found objects,” however since that time the art form has evolved. Today, an emerging field of artists have pioneered a new art form referred to as scrap metal art, and I am fortunate to be counted among their ranks.”
“I strive to combine the organic and the inorganic in a sort-of chaotic harmony.”
What is your creative process like?
“My process begins in the local junkyards and scrap facilities. I look for discarded parts in a two fold manner. Sometimes, a found piece will scream inspiration while other times it’s a mission to find the perfect parts for an existing idea. My mind is always open to both possibilities, and if I’m lucky, I come back to the studio with a little of both.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“I was recently honored to participate in an international art exhibition hosted by Qatar. Involving thirty artists from around the world, the Souq Waqif Art Center in Doha produced a world class event centered around the pioneers of scrap metal art. I will forever be thankful for the experience as I was able to meet so many brilliant artists from around the world. I also learned so much from the participants. Regardless of our cultural, political, or religious backgrounds, we spoke a common language of art that transcended the noise, and drew us closer together as human beings.”
Website: www.chrishynessculpture.com
Instagram: @theartofchrishynes
