Artist Bio

Artist Statement

"Art is a visual narration and mode of expression of shape, color and form, bestowing the viewer with a dialogue different from that found in words. It is a physical materialization of the thoughts, feelings and dreams that we have every day."

Gerard Basil Stripling draws on all aspects of life creating unique and meaningful contemporary fine art bronze sculptures. Where many artists transplant to work and live in Southern California, Basil Stripling grew up in the heart of Los Angeles. At an early age, he became aware that his passion was to be an artist, and spent many hours drawing as his recreation.

In the mid 1980's, this passion took him to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, where he earned an AA degree in Fashion Design. Upon graduation, he began work in the design industry and met famed costume designer Bill Whitten. Basil Stripling realized that Whitten, who designed costumes for stars Michael Jackson, Kenny Rogers, Neil Diamond, Lionel Richie and other music legends, could give him an abundance of creative experience, thus they began working together. In this ten year journey through the 1990's, Basil Stripling traveled all over the world honing his skills with construction & delivery of costumes, set designs, building props & creating functional art. During his travels, he visited every museum, gallery and artist studio possible. He would study for a few days at a time with several different artists, learning their techniques and approach to fine art. And with these experiences, Basil Stripling realized his passion to create art was only partly satisfied. He began his own self taught approach to creating fine art sculptures in different mediums such as ceramic, wood, steel and bronze. Eight years ago, Basil Stripling made the transition to work full time creating abstract fine art sculptures. They range in size and scope, as he is inspired by real life experiences. He also moved to Laguna Beach in 2000. Basil Stripling took his knowledge of art and design and began working with architect Andrew Miller in 2003 to create a modern addition to his home that resembles a contemporary piece of art. In the last few years Basil Stripling has begun to focus on sculpting in bronze, where he has found the truest form of art that flows from his heart, head and soul. His sculptures have also grown larger in size, awarding him five Public Art pieces throughout Southern California, along with his growing base of private collectors and corporations. Basil Stripling was recently selected as an emerging artist to watch in 2008 by American Style Magazine. His studio and home remain in Laguna Beach, California.

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