Artist Statement

Kent Epler

I am a fourth-generation Montanan with a background in fine arts and design, including interior design and children’s theater. Because of my background in scene and costume design, manipulating fabrics and found objects into sculptures comes second nature to me. They are each a piece of theatre and inspiration can come from anywhere. A name, a piece of fabric, or a discarded brooch can be the basis of a character. Ninety percent of my material base is found or reclaimed. Everything used has already lived another life. Next the skeleton is roughed out of electrical wire, stuffing, and wooden dowels. Bits and snatches of fiber, fabric and accessories are pulled together on a story board. Bit by bit the costume is fitted to the character and sometimes the body is fitted to the costume. Next I start the rehearsal process, with posing the character into his or her stance, adding a piece of jewelry, changing a hat, scuffing a boot. Last their face is created, hair and makeup applied appropriate to this new character. each one has its own voice, its own story. only form my patterns and designs can these characters come to life.