Journeys in Stone
Sculpture of WL Nettelhorst

William Nettelhorst was born and raised in Chicagoland. His sculpture is both figurative and abstract while being deeply insightful and personal. Many of his pieces have connection and inspiration from current events that also have roots in his life. Feminine torsos are where his stone sculpture began. Several of these works were exhibited at Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts and are not represented here. The Designer High Heel series has only previously been exhibited at Neiman Marcus. In 2021, what was then called Inner Experiences series was the focus of Milwaukee’s Alfons Gallery’s online exhibit while closed for COVID.

Artist Statement

My sculpting is a place of alternate experience where time losses its significance. The connection is with the stone and is primarily tactile. Somehow there is often an inner sense of where to go or what to do with the piece. I describe it as the sculpture speaking to me. I don’t seem to be able to visualize the piece within the stone at the beginning. However, I am aware of a moment when the sculpture becomes. It’s as though the relationship with the piece has transitioned and I am no longer creating. I am from that point on finishing what the piece wants to be. It’s very difficult to describe and quite delightful to experience. It is clear to me that after each piece is done the piece is not done with me. Very often the unfolding of story and meaning is only the beginning. Sometimes months even years later I find myself discovering the piece’s essence and place in existence. It’s funny how that deep knowing comes forward.

The exhibit is on display at the UWO Fond du Lac Campus, Oberreich Gallery from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday.
Join us for an artist reception on Friday, May 6 from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Free and open to the community. Light refreshments.

For more info contact stronglangok@uwosh.edu or call (920) 929-1138