Tom Gross

(1938 - 2012)

Artist Statement:

Since 1984, my work has focused on the process of casting. In 1986, the focus narrowed to ceramic slip casting. Since then, the struggle has been in the acquisition of technical skills and the accumulation of experience peculiar to ceramic slip casting. The initial goals were to maximize size and complexity in two-piece molds, develop compatible clay and glaze bodies, and refine color. The current goal is to use the acquired knowledge as a vehicle for personal expression in this medium.

The esthetics have grown out of pluralistic and expansive developments in postmodern architecture. A general love of world architecture through the ages has added to an ever-expanding source of images and systems. At present, the inclination is to make things of beauty and harmony; a new lyricism, if you like. In po mo (postmodern) jargon, a reaction to de con's (deconstruction) potential for destabilizing energy and random anger.

Artists Biography:

Thomas was a graduate of Washington High School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He earned a BFA, MS and MFA from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Tom was a cartographer, assembly line welder, and artist at the Milwaukee Natural History Museum before being hired by the University of Wisconsin Center System. He taught at Racine and Marinette County Centers before being hired by University of Wisconsin, Washington County in 1968. He remained at UWWC until his retirement in 2000.

Tom worked with stone, bronze, welded steel and ceramics (both hand built and cast) to create his sculpture. His work is abstract and modern. He often felt his sculptures were mock-ups for large civic buildings or public spaces. He won top honors for his welded steel sculptures in several of the first Lakefront Festival of the Arts Competitions in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His work has been included in juried shows in Japan, Italy, New Zealand and New York. When Tom retired his interests were still expanding into computer graphics. Thomas retired as full Professor Emeritus having touched the hearts and lives of hundreds of students in Washington County.

One of Tom's most important works is the house he built on the corner of 9th Ave. and Linden St. in West Bend. In building this house, Tom was able to experiment with construction techniques, passive solar heating, open floor plans, interior design and the sculptural use of space for both practical and psychological comfort. He was interested in community building and diversity within neighborhoods.

- Written by Tom's artist wife, Jo A. Gross