Art Installation: Isaac Prior

Artist Statement: What if? That question has always been a driving force of inspiration. If there could be a creature on this planet that can create light, with a chemical reaction in its thorax to attract a mate (a light-ning bug), or the ability for a fungus to infect the brain of an ant, and turn them into a mindless, light seeking, insect (Ophiocordyceps unilateralis), why couldn’t there be a tortoise so large it could have a mountain on its back, or a bird that has command over fire? The universe is limitless and the thought of what is possible is incomprehensible. With my art I focus on this and expand it even into the abstract realm of creativity. 

With my artwork I try and create a feeling of serene beauty, as well as raising an eyebrow to get people thinking about the “What If?” I use a variety of materials but I have found a passion for pen and ink. It’s an unforgiving medium, but stunning and precise. Mistakes are easily seen and are hard to cover up. Most of my artwork doesn’t happen quickly, I spend weeks and sometimes months creating a piece. Some pieces have well over thirty hours of work in them.

I do not see art as a choice or as something that can be ignored. All humans are creative and show creativity in different ways, and if looked at, every profession or line of work is creative. Art isn’t something that I choose to do, art is something that I am compelled to create. It is second nature.  Just like why a fish swims, it is its way of being.

Crawling Vine (2023)
Paint markers on plywood, 28” x 52”
$600

Trails in Space (2023)
Cabinet paint and paint markers on plywood, 24” on 48”
$800

These six pieces will be in store until the end of September. To purchase a piece, please email events@dogearedbooksames.com and let us know which one you’re interested in.