Deon Duncan
Deon Duncan is a graduate from The Art Institute of Chicago (1991) where she obtained her masters in painting and post-modern critical theory. For a number of years Duncan made painting the focus of her work, however never truly connected with it as her medium of passion. Some years ago, she made a drastic shift from painting into the art of sculpture. For four years she laboriously invested thousands of hours acquiring the skills necessary for a figurative sculptor. Today we are witness to the fruits of her labor, for Duncan is a proficient and highly skilled sculptor.
There is a certain “quietude” which can be found in her work, which is both naturally subtle, as well as expressive. This quietude engages the viewer to something deeper than simply a surface impression. Delicate gestural nuances impart a sensitivity which is required to make the human figure personable and believable. What is also apparent in her work is Duncan’s appreciation for the aesthetic beauty of line. It is a consistent strength throughout her work, and expressed through works which range from being regal in stature to fluid and organic. An interesting element to her work, is her attention to the finished surface. Duncan utilizes a variety of patina’s, or finishes to the metal surface which transforms them into sculptures which are beautiful, and more conceptual at times.
The artist has shown nationally, and her work is included in both public as well as private collections. She is the recipient of numerous awards which include the “C. Percival Dietsch Award” (award of excellence), “The National Sculptural Society” (2 bronze medals), “The Portrait Society of America - International Competition” (award of exceptional merit), and “The International Art Renewal Center Salon” (second place). Duncan’s work can best be described as possessing a tenderness, dignity and modern sophisticated elegance.
Swim Series II (bronze) 35H x 8W x 5D
Swim Series II (bronze) 35H x 8W x 5D
Swim Series II (bronze) 35H x 8W x 5D
Clarity (bronze) 34h
Clarity (detail)