Willy Verginer’s wood sculptures are a fascinating blend of hyperrealism and surrealism, capturing the attention of art enthusiasts worldwide. Born in 1957, Verginer has honed his craft in the Italian Alps, where he meticulously carves figures from wood, infusing them with vibrant blocks of color that add a layer of depth and contemporary edge to his work.
His pieces often reflect poignant social and environmental themes, inviting viewers to ponder the complex relationship between humanity and nature. Verginer’s sculptures have been showcased in numerous exhibitions, and his unique approach to combining lifelike forms with abstract elements has solidified his reputation in the art world.
I think colour is the most important part of my work. In art school I studied painting and not sculpting. The colour I use overwhelms my figures. It does not underline a narration, but the narration itself revolves, questions and changes with this additional visual. A tension, a conflict, as well as unity and harmony occur between colour and wood. Colour often has a symbolic value. I often use a range of colours according to the symbolism, or in connection with a specific expression, but it is not a rule; sometimes I also use a completely opposite colour (something that is counter intuitive) to surprise the viewer. (…) I don’t like when people see me as a surrealist. The surreal movement had the concept very different from what I try to achieve. However, humour and absurdity is very important for me. Both help to see the reality better. My greatest effort and my greatest research focus on not remaining fossilised on the naturalistic representation of the figure, but on giving something more. Through a dreamlike study, or better still absurd, rather than fantastic, because I often see real situations it is those that stimulate and greatly influence my work.
Willy Verginer
More info: Website, Artsy, Instagram (h/t: STIRworld, Creative Boom, City Code).
