Timothy Carter

Timothy Carter is a steel sculptor creating minimal and figurative steel sculpture. Beginning his relationship with steel over eighteen years ago, he developed a deep esthetic connection with the medium. He believes that his art invokes a private conversation with the viewer, elevating the human experience.  His art installations have been viewed all over the globe.  Some of his most prominent work has been installed across the United States and abroad.

Can you share some insights into your creative process when working with steel as a medium for your sculptures? How does the material itself influence your artistic choices?

Using steel I-beams as a medium is a wonderful choice for me from the fact It is a powerful and substantial material all by itself. It is my endeavor is to present the curved I-beam in a soft, delicate, and elegant way, with balance and softness.

Minimalism often emphasizes simplicity and the elimination of unnecessary elements. How do you balance this aesthetic with the monumental scale of your sculptures? What challenges and opportunities does this present?

Minimalism fits the curved I-beam well, the large scale of the structural material would be over whelming and unbalanced if presented in more then three beams. My focus is on the endless opportunities there are in configuring the curved I-beams in the most balanced shapes.

Can you share any particular artistic or philosophical influences that have shaped your approach to sculpting? Are there any artists or movements that you find particularly inspiring in this context?

I have a few philosophical approaches to my work. First being that my sculpture has the same visual impact at all points of view, Second that I feel it, as it is something that has emotion.       

Working with steel often requires a deep understanding of technical processes. How do you navigate the challenges of welding, shaping, and finishing such large-scale sculptures? Are there any specific techniques or tools you rely on heavily?

I have worked with steel beginning in 2001, so I have gained skills with welding, cranes, and metal shaping equipment, for some time now.

Can you discuss the relationship between your sculptures and their environment? How do you envision them interacting with the spaces they inhabit, whether indoors or outdoors? Are there specific environments or settings that you find particularly conducive to showcasing your work?

I love creating my curved yellow I-beam sculptures for both indoor and outdoors, The size is the only thing that influences the sculpture I create for indoors. I believe that the blue sky and green grass is a wonderful back drop for my very large scale curved  yellow I-beam sculptures, they truly come alive.

Can you tell us about your artistic journey and what initially inspired you to pursue a career in art?

My artistic journey began as early as I can remember. After winning a New York state competition for my watercolor painting in the 8th grade, I exhausted the high school art program and was art club president by 11th grade. I say this only to show creating art has been an internal drive for me all my life. Something I can not stop myself from doing.

Many artists find inspiration from various sources. Can you share some of the key influences, both within the art world and outside of it, that have shaped your artistic perspective?

For my twenties and part of my and part of my thirties I worked diligently to copy my favorite painters to learn to get it just right, Then I began a fundamental change in my life to find my own way, to discover my own path in art. I have been propelled in my life with this quest ever since.

Art can be a powerful medium for conveying messages or emotions. What do you hope viewers take away from experiencing your work, and how do you navigate the balance between personal expression and connecting with a broader audience?

I hope viewers ask themselves, why do I feel the feelings I do when I view this art, what I am feeling, and begin a conversation with themselves.