BOB CARLS

July 3, 1940 – December 26, 2022

For over 30 years Bob Carls created functional and decorative lathe-turned wood vessels using traditional and contemporary woodworking processes, both on and off the lathe.

CRAFTSMANSHIP

In his later work he used lamination and segmenting to take advantage of the graphic qualities of the process and the organic quality of the wood.

EXPERIENCE

Bob Carls brought to his work a lifetime of study in art forms that ranged from improvisational music to the visual arts, especially photography, sculpture and film.

FOCUS

“My work focuses on function or implied function and draws from my personal experience and value system, striving for continuity, historical context and a high level of workmanship.”

INSPIRATION

Bob Carls was inspired by the environment and seasonal changes in the woodlands of north central Minnesota where he lived and worked. In winter he found inspiration in the stark contrast of the frozen landscape—snow and bare tree branches; in spring, it was the subtle reemergence of color; in summer the almost obscene abundance of growth; and in the autumn, it was the cacophony of color that brought him inspiration.

WORK ETHOS

Bob Carls said, “I believe in a commitment to craft and handmade and all the philosophical “baggage” that goes with that—politics, consumerism and environmental stewardship.  I strive to maintain a high level of craftsmanship. I feel fortunate to be able to start, follow through and complete a project. Going to the studio in the morning, putting in a full day, and doing that day after day gives me a great deal of satisfaction.”

COLLECTIONS

Turned woods vessels by Bob Carls can be found in the permanent collection of the Minnesota State Historical Society, St. Paul, MN;  as well as corporate and private collections worldwide.