George Simonds

Lives and works in New York, NY

Artist statement

I am drawn to objects that have been forgotten and worn down by time, usually objects that were manufactured to serve a purpose or do a job: a shovel or a bucket or an old piece of machinery, for example. These objects are often older than I am, and have existed long before I turn them into “art”. I want to maintain their rich character while giving them a new purpose, not only as a piece of art, but as a machine with a new function. Many of these objects are turned into fountains. Their new function is to direct water in an endless cycle, without leaking. A fountain is traditionally the focus of the space it exists in. The sound and movement of the water draws attention to these objects that would be overlooked if we walked past them on the street. With found objects, my sculptures become a reflection of the environment I am living in. Repurposing these worn-out relics creates a dialogue with the past. Their decay is evidence of a long hardworking existence. Maybe I feel sorry for them and want to give them a new purpose in life. I hope that using recognizable, real-world materials makes my sculptures relatable and provokes empathy. I want to allow the objects to speak for themselves, letting their pre-existing imperfections guide my creative decisions. With no engineering education my machines are not perfect. Like people, they have flaws, and they don’t always do what they were built to do. They take on a haphazard energy, balancing on the edge of success and failure....

Artwork