A master artisan who is highly skilled in all aspects of casting and carving, Elizabeth Dante works in numerous media; notably bronze, and other materials such as cast stone,aluminum, resin, concrete, and carved marble. While a gemologist living and traveling in Brazil, Panama and Southeast Asia, Ms. Dante attained an affinity for the Third World. This ever-present influence has provided Elizabeth with stylistic inspiration for her work ranging from classical naturalism to stylistic narration. Much of her sculpture explores the dynamics between round organic forms and hard rigid angles. By exaggerating this interplay, her work creates a sense of tension which is both lively and sensual.
Ms. Dante has said that her work combines ancient and modern rituals, extracting archetypes and stylized motifs.”I pay homage to the many facets of the human spirit, characterized by warmth, humor and sometimes political commentary.”
Although she utilizes an academic background that includes the Gemological Institute of America, the San Francisco Art Institute, and the College of Marin, Ms. Dante remains essentially self-taught. She has honed her craft by working for established sculptors, most notably Elio Benvenuto. While an artist assistant to German artist Toni Bruchert in Pietra Santa,Italy, Ms. Dante learned traditional techniques and methods for sculpting/enlarging and casting/finishing bronze; patinas; and marble carving. Most recently as a patina artisan, Ms. Dante has worked with Bay Area Artists Steven DeStaebler, Bruce Beasley, and Ruth Asawa.
Ms. Dante has exhibited in numerous shows in the United States and Italy. Her outstanding works have been showcased in collaborative efforts such as “Art on the Rock at Alcatraz”, and “The Day of the Dead” Exhibition at The Museum of Mexican Art. In 1990, she received the prestigious Art of Peace Award from the Artist Embassy International for her sculpture “Woman's Liberation”, which was chosen by the Oakland Art Commission as a gift to Nelson Mandela and the people of South Africa.
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