I have worked for more than 20 years in fiber sculpture and more recently in public art.  Cold, industrial materials intrigue me with their potential to be used to create objects that contain warmth and lyricism.  Although materials cast off from industry and agriculture provide the raw materials for my work, the inspiration for the work comes from the landscape, my personal sense of place, and the human figure.

In 2000 I successfully transitioned into public art.  I have designed enhancements for numerous trail and highway bridges in Arizona and Iowa and have competed as a finalist in public art projects throughout the country.  My commitment to a project begins with extensive research into the physical environment and culture of an area, approaching each situation with fresh vision and without preconceived ideas for solutions.  I then draw upon my long experiences as an artist to develop site sensitive enhancements.  I have particular knowledge about the integration of art elements into transportation structures and am experienced collaborating with engineers, landscape architects, city officials and other design team professionals.  I am a skilled educator and am diplomatic when dealing with the public, involving them in my projects whenever appropriate.  My experiences with bridge enhancements range form collaboration with bridge engineers from the ground up to the retrofitting of designs to existing structures.  I have worked within a wide range of budgets, from modest to handsome, and believe that quality of art is not dependent on budget size.

In the examples of sculpture for the body, models interact with my sculptures or wear headdresses created from unlikely materials such as dish scrubbers, disposable plastic bags, and industrial wire meshes.  These photos combine the traditions of fashion photography and of site-specific installations, the human figure being the site.  Body related sculptures and installations provide a playful counterpoint to the rigorous design work of bridge enhancements, public art and large-scale gallery installations.

Judy Bales