Artist Statement
I create sculptures, drawings and temporary installations working with the visual and metaphorical attributes of ships.  These universally iconic forms have captured my imagination for many years as an emotional and psychological presence.  My inspiration for this approach is the work of artists who have spent whole careers exploring and knowing the visual presence of singular subjects or concepts.  I want to know the ship as a distinctive entity that envelops form and content, connecting humanity with tangible reality.

I consider the visual attributes of my ship works as an aesthetic presence or point of departure.  The processes I employ in creating the work are wide-ranging, allowing the form to transform conceptually and expressively, resulting in dynamic shapes and appearance.

My resume details exhibitions in galleries, art museums, alternative spaces, and outdoor sites.  I have over 20 one-person shows, and numerous group and juried exhibitions throughout America and in Japan.  The State Art Councils of New Hampshire and Colorado recognized my work with Fellowship Grants for Artistic Merit.  I participated as a Visiting Artist creating installations at the University of Wyoming Art Museum, at Bridgewater State College, and at Texas Woman’s University.  I am currently a Professor of Foundation Studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia teaching classes in design and sculpture.
Chris Nitsche | Savannah GA | 912-898-7584 | chrismel@bellsouth.net