John Mueller

My experiences in art metals/jewelry and as a museum preparator have strongly influenced my approach to sculptural work. These backgrounds have provided me with a framework from which I build on the ideas of preciousness of materials, the value of paying attention to meticulous detail, and the power of presentation.

For the last fifteen years, my mixed medium sculptural work has been the vehicle for my explorations into the concepts of implied presentation, containment and rarification, and the transformation of utility.

In my current work, I am experimenting with theories of the inherent impact of formal presentation and introducing stronger elements of social statement and personal experiences with an often dark humor and a sense of irony. By intermeshing traditional forms of display with modified common objects, the first impression I am creating is meant to win the interest of the viewer through the contingency of display and content.