Recollection of Grace (2010)
Basalt
Justin Perlman
Justin Perlman:
Sculpture on the Patio
Exhibition:
Opens April 11, 2026
Opening Reception: April 11, 2026
Justin Perlman sculpts wood, stone, and metal not only to transform physically the materials but to also give voice to their inherent narrative power and bring forth stories of entanglement, connection, and emotional depth.
Artist's Statement: To describe my work, it is necessary to explain that at the core of my artistic philosophy is the belief that materials possess inherent narrative power. Through materials, stories of entanglement, connection, and emotional depth resonate on a broader human level. My artistic exploration is not limited to the physical transformation of materials but extends to the stories they can embody. The raw materials, such as iron and stone, have very real associations for people and are in fact pieces of social memory. This allows me to manipulate not just the form but the emotional essence of the work, creating sculptures that are as much about the viewer’s interpretation as they are about my intentions. For instance, using bronze to encapsulate the delicate weave of burlap, or casting natural grasses, speaks to the idea of permanence versus fragility, echoing the human condition in its duality. This duality is also apparent in the artistic process, where I seek the precise moment when a material communicates both its inherent qualities and the narrative potential it embodies in an epiphany that breathes life into the sculpture.
Biography: An award winning artist, Justin Perlman carved an educational path that is uncommon nowadays but also offered access to generations of artists and skilled technicians that a traditional approach would not likely yield. He began studying Experimental Anthropology and Fine Art at Hampshire College to recognize that he wanted to develop his own artistic voice further, so he pursued sculpture at the Art Students’ League of NY. From NYC he traveled to Pietrasanta, Italy to study stone carving under renowned artist, Nathaniel Kaz, and master artisan, Gino Lombardi. After living in Italy for over one year he returned to the USA to work at the Coopermill Bronze Works, a fine art bronze foundry, in order to become proficient in all aspects of the bronze casting process. In 2000 He moved to Pittsburgh, PA where he established a studio and became a driving member of the Slaughterhouse Studios and Gallery, a community art space open to all. He also collaborated with founder of Squonk Opera, Steve O’Hearn, in the design and sculpting of a thirty foot stainless steel relief which reflected the industry and landscape of the Three River Valley; this was installed at the new Pittsburgh Convention center. In 2004 Justin moved north to work as a technical instructor, and establish a bronze program at the Vitlycil campus of the Art Students League. From there he went to work in the studio of renowned sculptor Anthony Padavano. His work has found home in both national and international collections, including multiple private commissions and several public works.
For the past ten years Justin has taught Bronze casting and sculpture, at the Silvermine Arts Center in New Canaan, CT, making him one of less than a handful in all of New England that had trained and currently practice this intensive art form without the aid of a large foundry. In 2025 he was elected president of the New England Sculptors Association. Justin Perlman’s studio is in Bethlehem, CT., where he also serves as co-artistic director, and puppet designer with his wife Adelka Polak of Sova Dance and Puppet Theater.
PROUD TO BE SUPPORTED BY
ARTSWESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER COUNTY GOVERNMENT