Flights of Fancy: Sculpture by Steven McGovney

In December, the Pence will have a new exhibit featuring work by Steven McGovney. He has worked in multiple media, but McGovney’s current concentration is on the sculptural side of ceramics. The artist uses clay, steel wire, and acrylic and oil paint to bring his animal and figurative work to life.

McGovney’s art merges a surreal side of nature with his love of movement. Birds painted in bright colors are outfitted with shoes and clothing. As he admits, his sculptures at the Pence are truly “imaginary birds inspired by the wacky names of birds themselves.” They totter on long legs, giving a sense of whimsical action. His human figures are often based on fictional characters, such as in Alice in Wonderland, or from his own imagination.

He currently lives in Arizona and teaches ceramics at Yavapai Community College in Prescott.

Exhibit: December 2 – 24, 2022
Reception: Friday, December 9, 6 – 9 PM (free)
Address: Pence Gallery – 212 D Street, Davis, CA 95616

Image: S. McGovney, “Goosed”