Carson art | wall sculptures

the emBODYment series

This work is a celebration of the forms, shapes and symbols that echo the stories of our ancestry. Each piece serves as a conduit connecting the past with the present and the future.

Through my art I explore the intricate tapestry of identity and heritage, inviting viewers to reflect on their own family roots and shared human experience.

My creations are not just representations, they are a dialogue with history urging us to recognize the legacies that shape us.

blue/green house form

em BODY ment
series

2025

hand carved wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

14W x 33H x 2 1/2D inches.

ebony house form

em BODY ment
series

The presence of bodies within a house form can symbolize a variety of things, including exposure, vulnerability, a challenge to societal norms, and a desire for authenticity. It can also represent a connection to primal instincts, the shedding of worldly attachments, or even a personal journey of self-discovery.

2024

hand carved reclaimed barn wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

29W x 17H x 3 1/2D inches.

Bodies in House
Wide Frame, black wax finish

ivory house form five panel for cross

The combination of bodies, the cross, and the house shape can evoke a sense of both the fallen state of humanity and the possibility of spiritual renewal and redemption through faith. It can also represent the human body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, worthy of honor and love.

2024

hand carved reclaimed barn wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

28 1/2H x 15W x 2 1/2D inches.

Bodies in House
Five Panel for Cross ivory

love shack

The symbolism of bodies in a house form can vary greatly depending on the context and individual interpretations. Generally, it suggests a sense of vulnerability, exposure, and a return to a primal state, free from societal conventions and constraints. The house, as a symbol of home and shelter, can highlight the contrast between the protected environment and the naked body's vulnerability.

2023

hand carved reclaimed barn wood, 20" wide boards from the year 1690, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

46H x 40W x 2 1/2D inches.

yellow rose of Texas

Flowers within a house are often symbolic, representing positive energy, good luck, and happiness. They can also add a touch of nature and beauty to the home, creating a sense of coziness and tranquility. The specific meaning of flowers can vary based on their color, type and cultural context.

2024

hand carved reclaimed barn wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

34H x 31W x 3 1/2D inches.

ebony house form

em BODY ment
series

The presence of bodies within a house form can symbolize a variety of things, including exposure, vulnerability, a challenge to societal norms, and a desire for authenticity. It can also represent a connection to primal instincts, the shedding of worldly attachments, or even a personal journey of self-discovery.

2024

hand carved reclaimed barn wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

29W x 17H x 3 1/2D inches.

ivory house form five panel for cross

The combination of bodies, the cross, and the house shape can evoke a sense of both the fallen state of humanity and the possibility of spiritual renewal and redemption through faith. It can also represent the human body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, worthy of honor and love.

2024

hand carved reclaimed barn wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

28 1/2H x 15W x 2 1/2D inches.

love shack

The symbolism of bodies in a house form can vary greatly depending on the context and individual interpretations. Generally, it suggests a sense of vulnerability, exposure, and a return to a primal state, free from societal conventions and constraints. The house, as a symbol of home and shelter, can highlight the contrast between the protected environment and the naked body's vulnerability.

2023

hand carved reclaimed barn wood, 20" wide boards from the year 1690, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

46H x 40W x 2 1/2D inches.

yellow rose of Texas

Flowers within a house are often symbolic, representing positive energy, good luck, and happiness. They can also add a touch of nature and beauty to the home, creating a sense of coziness and tranquility. The specific meaning of flowers can vary based on their color, type and cultural context.

2024

hand carved reclaimed barn wood panels, acrylic, beeswax, pigment

34H x 31W x 3 1/2D inches.

Richard Lee Carson

about me

Richard Lee Carson (b. 1965, New York City, NY). an American artist, I bring wood to life through my refined wall sculptures, furniture, and feature walls. My work reflects a deep appreciation for home, nature, and family, inspired by the intricate beauty found in the natural world.

Explore the endless possibilities of complexity and fluidity in wood and consider commissioning a custom piece or collaborating on an artistic venture.

inspiration

As a visual artist, my work is a celebration of the forms, shapes and symbols that echo the stories of my ancestry. Each piece serves as a conduit connecting the past with the present and the future, honoring those who came before. Through my art I explore the intricate tapestry of identity and heritage, inviting viewers to reflect on their own family roots and shared human experience. My creations are not just representations, they are a dialogue with history urging us to recognize the legacies that shape us.

panels

The individual panels unite to create a breathtaking mosaic, adding layers of meaning to the artwork. Each piece contributes to a greater narrative, inviting viewers to explore the intricate within. This harmonious composition captivates the eye and enriches the overall experience, making it a truly remarkable visual masterpiece.

finish

Using a blend of bees and sealing wax, the wax is carefully melted and infused with vibrant pigments, then brushed onto the wooden sculpture. A torch is used to create a smooth, even coat of wax. Once the wax cools and dries, the piece is gently hand-polished to achieve a stunning, ceramic-like glaze that beautifully captures and reflects light and shadows throughout the day.

Encaustic art dates back to ancient times, with origins in Greek and Roman civilizations around 500 BC. This technique involves using heated beeswax mixed with colored pigments, allowing artists to create vibrant and textured works. The method was popular for decorating wooden panels and sculptures, but it fell out of favor during the Renaissance. In recent years, encaustic has seen a resurgence among contemporary artists, who appreciate its unique qualities and the depth it brings to their creations.

detail

Creating art requires a keen attention to detail, as it's often the smallest elements that elevate a piece from ordinary to extraordinary. The finishing touches can breathe life into the artwork, ensuring every stroke, color, and texture harmonizes seamlessly. This meticulous approach not only enhances the visual impact but also resonates deeply with viewers, inviting them to connect emotionally. In a world where art is celebrated, such dedication transforms creations into profound experiences that leave lasting impressions.

upcoming amazing art show spots

Piper J. Gallery,

Truckee CA

Present - 2026

Beverly Hills art show,

Beverly hills CA

Oct 18 and 19th, 2025

ARC Gallery,

San Francisco CA

November 15 - January 10, 2026

in the studio

Wood is a timeless material that resonates deeply with humanity. From the cradle to the hearth, it has been a steadfast companion in our lives, providing comfort and warmth. Committed to sustainability through his practice he thoughtfully sources oak, ash, walnut, and cherry from local forests and barns. This harmonious approach not only honors the beauty of wood but also ensures a responsible relationship with nature.

About

thank you

Thank you for taking the time to visit my website. You are truly appreciated, and I hope you find the content engaging and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out. Enjoy!

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