The work presented at the Orchard Galleries in Oakland, California is from a 30+ year sculptural project entitled, “100 Vessels—Theories of Evolution.” The pieces from this series, although abstract in nature, make allusion to the vessel, a cross-cultural, and at times totemic form which represents human presence and the cycle of life.

The pieces in the “Vessel Series” are constructs or hybrids—addressing and incorporating both natural/biological and technical/industrial factors.

In examining questions of evolution I have taken into consideration aspects of birth and death, rites of passage, war and power, transportation, shelter, communication, and climate change.

When the delicate balance holding these elements together tips due to human intervention and degradation, these systems lose touch with the Earth’s harmony and develop threats to the evolution of species, ecosystems, and coexistence on the planet.

The pieces are constructed with repurposed wood and flax, a natural plant fiber. For health and political reasons I stopped using toxic materials when I began the “Vessel Series.

For more Jeff Key Blog Posts: jeffmkey-art.blogspot.com/

Jeff Key's sculpture can be seen at:
The Petaluma Art Center
230 Lakeville St., Petaluma, CA 94952
(Open Fri & Sat. Noon-4pm.)

For more Jeff Key Blog Posts: jeffmkey-art.blogspot.com/