ARTIST INFO

JAMES D. W. COOPER
Bakersville, NC
cricketscove.net

METALS | Sculptural and functional metal

Penland Affiliation | Penland Instructor 1999, 2003, 2004, 2010, 2012

Artist Information | Studio artist; education: BFA, Memphis College of Art (TN), Apprenticeship, Blacksmithing, James A. Wallace, Memphis, TN 1979-82; awards: American Craft Council Award of Achievement; collections: City of Greensboro (NC), Birmingham Botanical Gardens (AL), Metal Museum (TN); publications: 500 Chairs.

Artist Statement | I make utilitarian works of art. Enjoying something everyday that was custom made for you, takes useful items to a whole different level of enjoyment. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than my clients\’ expression of delight when they embrace a piece made only for them. I pride myself on turning an idea or a wish into reality.

Artist Bio | Cooper, who is commissioned for both public and private works, has had his art exhibited and is collected privately throughout the country. One of his best-known pieces, however, can be found in Center City Park in Greensboro, North Carolina. Libation, the centerpiece of the park, is an 8-foot-6-inch bronze fountain comprised of two containers continuously brimming over. While his larger works are primarily iron, Cooper works in several different types of metals.