Earth Dance
(wall relief construction of bent wood)
Acquired: 2002; Location: North Entrance

Gerard’s wall sculptures, which are described as wall relief constructions of bent wood, are inspired by World music. He begins creating his sculptures by drawing shapes he likes onto brick plywood templates. Using clamps and c-clips to hold each piece together, he simultaneously arranges pieces until he completes a composition. Each shape is cut out of a unique wood and steamed and soaked so the wood can be bent. The pieces are reinforced with several screws which are invisible to the eye. The sculptures are completely puttied over and sanded to feel comfortable to the touch. Three coats of acrylic black paint are applied providing the base for the additional layers of colors. “This entire process is a spontaneous one on my part. I am working from intuition. It is more about the process than the product for me,” says Gerard.

Gerard, who was born in Casablanca, Morocco, is a self-taught artist. He has a degree in engineering and participated in workshops at the Museum of Modern Art and at the Art Student’s League. Currently, Gerard works in his studio in Miami.

Jonas Gerard’s Earth Dance greets those who enter the library through the north entrance with a sense of energy as it shows off its bright colors.