Artist Biography

Adam Garey was born in Lexington, Kentucky. He received a BFA in sculpture from the University of Kentucky in 2000 and a MFA from Florida State University in 2005. In 2007 Adam moved to Chattanooga, TN to work for internationally renowned sculptor John Henry, where he supervised the fabrication and installations of Henry’s work. In 2013 he relocated to Hamilton, NJ where he supervised the fabrication, installation, and casting departments at Seward Johnson Atelier. Currently, he split his time building his own work and Project managing large sculpture projects for UAP Polich Tallix. He has recently exhibited in Haddonfield, NJ, Jacksonville, FL, Miami, FL, New Orleans, LA, Chattanooga, TN, Solsberry, IN, and Atlanta, GA.

Artist Statement

"From a young age, a strong work ethic was instilled in me. Not from chastisement or reward, but from a compelling example of knowing what should be done and doing it, whatever the cost.

When thinking about my artwork and a unifying statement that transmits throughout, I came to the conclusion that the more words I used, the less I actually said. My drive is not to write but to communicate visually in three dimensions. However, during my search for words, one appeared over and over: WORK. This small four-letter word expresses a great deal about my sculpture and my process. This world and I have a great deal in common."

Deflection Statement

Reused industrial pipes are a focal component of the sculpture Deflection. These were not new pipes, they were discarded parts no longer straight or structural for standard construction. I chose to give these elements new life and meaning through my sculpture process. Now manipulated with bends, twists, and sections cut away for aesthetic reasons. Combining the old and discarded with newly fabricated forms to demonstrate growth and rebirth.

Phoenix Statement

Four I-beams are the central elements of the sculpture Phoenix. These were not new beams, they were discarded parts no longer straight or structural for standard construction and pitted from years in the elements. I chose to give these elements new life and meaning through my sculpture process. Now manipulated with bends, twists, and sections cut away for aesthetic reasons. Combining the old and discarded with newly fabricated forms to demonstrate growth and rebirth. On the side of each beam, Phoenix USA is stamped from its manufacturer. I found this a very fitting title for this sculpture. Just as a phoenix obtains new life by arising from the ashes of its predecessor so have these pieces of industrial history in this sculpture.