Exploring Art in Marble: Adam Parker Smith's Creative Journey

XA: Adam, your marble cube series is a bold reimagining of iconic sculptures. Can you tell us how the idea of "crushing" these classical works into cubes first came to you? Was there a specific moment or inspiration that sparked this concept?

APS: The idea for the marble cube series was conceived during a period of personal recovery from a serious injury, while I was bedridden. The concept of "crushing" these classical works into cubes emerged as a way to manage and contain the overwhelming feelings I was experiencing. The act of crushing these grand, traditional sculptures into compact cubes became a metaphor for the physical and emotional harm I endured through injury. Just as the sculptures were compressed and reshaped, my body and spirit were put through a similar process. The injury fractured my sense of self and forced me to confront my vulnerabilities. However, this transformation also led to a new understanding and appreciation of resilience and recovery.

Reimagining these classical sculptures in a cubic form reflects the body’s ability to adapt and heal. Even when damaged, there is potential for beauty and strength in a new form. This transformation speaks to the broader human experience of aging and injury, highlighting the inevitability of change and the hope inherent in recovery. By presenting these iconic works in a more accessible and relatable form, I aim to convey that while injury and aging can alter us, they also offer opportunities for growth and new perspectives. This series underscores the idea that through adversity, we can find new shapes and forms of expression that continue to hold historical significance and personal meaning.

Additionally, the implications of this approach extend beyond my personal journey. By transforming these works into cubes, I aim to explore the tension between tradition and modernity, suggesting that even the most revered and established forms can be reinterpreted and made more accessible. This process of reimagining classical art in a new form speaks to a larger narrative about the evolution of cultural heritage and its relevance in contemporary society. It underscores the idea that art, like life, is continuously evolving, and that by compressing and transforming these iconic pieces, we can find new meanings and connections that resonate with our present experiences.

XA: There's a playful irreverence in your work that really stands out. How does humor fit into your approach to these classical forms? Do you think it changes the way people connect with these traditionally revered sculptures?

APS: Humor plays a crucial role in my approach, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. By infusing classical forms with a sense of playfulness, I hope to break down the barriers that often surround revered artworks. Humor in art can make the unfamiliar more accessible, providing a fresh perspective and encouraging viewers to engage more deeply. This playful irreverence not only adds a contemporary twist but also invites viewers to see these sculptures in a new light, fostering a more personal connection.

XA: The fabrication process sounds like a fascinating blend of old-world craftsmanship and high-tech wizardry. Can you give us a peek behind the curtain? What was it like working with master carvers and a seven-axis robot? Any unexpected challenges along the way?

APS: The fabrication process is indeed a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation. We start with advanced digital modeling to recreate the intricate details of the original sculptures before compressing them into a cube. A seven-axis reductive robot performs the initial rough cuts with high precision, laying the groundwork for the master artisans to add the detail by hand. This collaboration between technology and craftsmanship ensures that each piece retains the essence of the original sculpture while embracing a modern form. Challenges often arise in maintaining the integrity of the original details while transforming them into a new shape, but the result is a seamless fusion of past and present. Each master carver has their own distinct style, and part of the process involves adapting and integrating their individual approaches into the project. The process is not just about translating technical specifications but also about bridging cultural and stylistic differences.

XA: Can you talk to us a bit about the material itself? You're working with marble, a material steeped in history and tradition, especially in classical sculpture. How does using marble influence the overall concept and feel of this work?

APS: Marble is a material rich in history and tradition, synonymous with classical sculpture. Its timeless quality adds a sense of permanence and gravitas to the works, grounding the modern reinterpretation in a deep historical context. By selecting marble from the same quarries that provided the material for the original sculptures that inspire these pieces, the work maintains a tangible connection to its historical roots. This choice of material not only adds a sense of permanence but also pays homage to the legacy of classical art. This combination of traditional material with modern techniques creates a dialogue between history and innovation, enhancing the overall concept of the series.

XA: You've chosen some pretty legendary sculptures for this series. What drew you to pieces like the Apollo of Belvedere and Bernini’s David? Is there a story behind your selections?

APS: The selection of sculptures like the Apollo of Belvedere and Bernini’s David was driven by their iconic status and historical significance. These works are masterpieces of classical art, representing the pinnacle of artistic achievement in their respective eras. By choosing such legendary pieces, I aim to engage with their rich cultural legacy and explore how their forms and meanings can be transformed and reinterpreted in a modern context. The process of selecting these sculptures involves not only their aesthetic appeal but also their ability to convey timeless themes that resonate with contemporary audiences.

XA: Your upcoming sculpture, Zeus, is your first foray into smaller-scale editions from this series. What drew you to pick Zeus for this edition? How did working on a 9" cube differ from the larger pieces you've done?

APS: Working on a 9" cube presented unique challenges and opportunities. The smaller scale requires a heightened level of precision and attention to detail, as every aspect of the sculpture must be meticulously crafted to retain its impact. This more intimate format allows viewers to engage with the sculpture up close, offering a different perspective compared to the larger pieces and emphasizing the concentrated essence of the original work.

XA: You've released several successful editions, like our 2021 Petite Shibari Heart series, which sold out almost immediately. What role do editions play in your practice, and why are they important to you as an artist?

APS: Editions play a significant role in my practice by making art more accessible to a broader audience. By creating limited editions, I can offer collectors a chance to own a piece of my work without the exclusivity and high cost of a single, unique piece. This approach aligns with my goal of democratizing art and making classical forms more approachable and relatable. Editions also allow for experimentation with different scales and formats.