​​The sculptures by the collaborative duo of Kirk H. Slaughter and Elisabett Gudmann transcend the starker aesthetics of minimalism by combining a clean architectural context with sensual sophistication.

 

Through a delicate balance of form and content, the clean lines and smooth surfaces reflect a masculine strength while at the same time maintaining a feminine sensibility. The work is precise, bold, and immaculate in execution. They play with movement, contrasting angles and varying planes; often juxtaposing colors, materials and textures.

 

Their most recent work incorporates the ancient Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban, the charring of wood to preserve it against the elements. Historically used for exterior wood applications, the charred wood naturally resists rot, fire, and insects, and is designed for outdoor environments.  The artists are drawn to the gorgeous, deeply textured and rich black color, contrasting the refined, smooth surfaces of the metal with the textured and stacked charred wood.  

 

Gudmann and Slaughter, a couple, take different approaches to their creative endeavors and have merged their diverse talents, styles and skills to create this body of work.  They collaborate throughout the entire process in their combined studio, from conception and construction to completion.

 

Slaughter conducted formal studies at the Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, IN, and the University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, and currently lives and works in Northern California.