Daniel Gerken • Bio
Cross Sculpture:
Daniel Gerken was brought up in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Like the native Sioux, Daniel believed the beautiful hills to be a sacred place; a place of wisdom, innocence and truth. The tribal icons and symbolism, inspired by the enlightened connection to their land, also connected to Daniel. From an early age, Daniel felt the power and deep emotion of these one dimensional shapes, with their simple, sharp angles, very similar to that of the cross.
Years later, it was a dollar a day adventure through Europe, visiting the great churches, viewing the wonderful statuary, studying the inspiring architecture, that Daniel again felt an enlightened connection. The majestic crosses of the ages fired up a renewed spirituality, stronger and deeper emotions to be explored, and a sense of serenity that first embraced Daniel in his beloved Black Hills.
Daniel's 'Art of the Cross', is a creative effort to capture the spirit of the cross, while incorporating components of expressive art.
Through the use of elements such as forged and cast iron, distressed woods, steel, aluminum, wood carvings, leathers, architectural and religious findings, his handmade creations take on their essence. Engraved and carved symbols and messages, in a variety of languages, further enhance reflection and feeling in his sculpture.
Daniel's work, in the 'Art of the Cross', is a tapestry of emotion, life experience, and enlightenment; and artistic event that brings every wanderer closer to one's purest wisdom, purest innocence, and purest truth.