JOHN BUCK

STATEMENT

John Buck's work demonstrates an exceptional insight and perspective on the social and political realities of the day. It often explores the enormity and complexity of conflict, yet his figures are whimsical and resilient. Buck manages to make provocative "issues" art, treating the conflict seriously, while his combination of symbols and figures display a sense of humor, and therefore an optimistic balance.

Inspired by his association with Roy DeForest, William Wiley and Robert Arneson at the University of California at Davis, Buck's free standing painted wood sculptures of the seventies were irony-filled commentaries on aspects of the male role in society. As he developed, however, Buck's interest in politics and concern for the natural environment has resulted in a highly personal body of sculpture, painting and works on paper.

Always a meticulous craftsperson, Buck's most recent work has achieved a new material richness balanced by strong content.

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