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About Me (Josh at work or play) I was born June 2, 1977 in Jefferson, IA from parents Roger and Marianne Carlson. I have three older brothers Chad, Matt, Nathan (in order) a younger sister Sarah and a younger brother Sam. I have been playing in the arts for as long as I can remember. Be it at age 6 when I used a drawknife for the first time in my grandfather's shop to shape a toy wooden sword, or at an earlier age trying to copy a drawing made by my gifted aunt Gina; creating things and developing those skills and processes has always been my way of life. It is through this artistic family that I give thanks for the encouraging environment to create as a child. Although, there have been many hurdles in the way of that life, I have tried my best to continue that pursuit and development as an artist. Some general knowledge on the subject of art was learned (with the help of my parents) as a student at the University of Iowa where I studied from 1995-1999. It was there that I took a serious interest in sculpture, thanks to my professors Thomas Aprile and Isabel Barbuzza. I think it was the work (labor) of these activities in creating sculpture that attracted me to it more so than the other fine arts. I've always lived an active fit lifestyle and feel I can continue that more so yet as a sculptor. To shape a log (that was rescued from the decay of the forest) with mere hand, mallet, and chisel (as an ancient ancestor would have done) is a romantic ordeal to me. Just as riding a snowboard down a mountain top is equally exhilarating to me. To live that way, active and playful, like a child so as to remain young at heart, that is my desire. Today, I feel my dreams have been realized. I am in good health and able to provide by means of creative work be it interior finish carpentry, a charcoal portrait, or a wood sculpture. I am interested in using all different mediums to do my work and never want to limit this passion by saying that I am only a sculptor. If painting is the best way for me to communicate an idea, then I will paint. If it is better communicated through a wood carving, then I will adjust my palette accordingly. I reside in Des Moines, IA with my significant other Hayley and our dog Jack, both whom I love very much. Hayley encouraged me to do my own thing and that is how Carlson Custom Woodwork started. I will take this time now to thank Hayley for her constant support and encouragment, I couldn't have made it here without her, Thank You! Iowa is and always will be my home. I always find inspiration here whether it is from the landscape, the weather, the family ties, or the activities we participate in. We have lots of family around us here, brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents, etc...all of whom we love and thank very much for their support. The value of living close to this home and these families is priceless. I wouldn't trade it for anything. It is my backbone, my lifeline. Life is good, and we couldn't be any happier. (Hayley, Josh, and Jack at Southwoods Park, in W.Des Moines, IA) |
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