james beale

Working with live models and rescued tree parts and trunks, I see the human form inside the natural wood shape, carve to find it and the results are pieces of art expressing the human spirit and sensuality. My human torso sculptures follow the natural shapes, curves and limitations of the wood and when combined with the curves and volumes of a human, become realistic, detailed figurative pieces with abstracted areas.

Living in Quepos, Costa Rica, I am influenced by the great variety of wood types and work from parts of trees found along roads, in fields and beach areas. My models are friends I encounter while living here.

My work spans three decades and has found homes in numerous states in the US, Europe and Costa Rica.