03/01/2023
2022-2024 EXHIBITION: Stryker by Clifton Cox. "I enjoy creating fabricated steel sculptures composed of intricately abstracted forms and structures, exhibiting measureless movement and energy. Inspired by organic and figurative elements, I like to combine them with mechanical components and balance them with volatile color and polished finishes. The goal is to create an interesting form with endless angles of composition, creating a mystical narrative, and captivating the viewers’ imagination beyond comprehendible measures. Stryker represents the inherent role of music and dance in the life of Native American’s ceremonial purposes of the “War Dance.” Fighting movements, and the use of weapons, are accompanied with indigenous music to prepare a warrior’s mental and spiritual amplitude for battle. Tomahawks, bows & arrows, lances, and knives were customary weapons used during a war dance, while drums, rattles, rasps, bells, and clap-sticks were habitually used instruments during war dance ceremonies. Stryker’s composition demonstrates the human figure, gesturing a tomahawk while engaged in an energetic dance of expression honoring the emotional and spiritual preparation of a hostile campaign."
