Forma Cova

Forma Cava is a collection of form and material investigations by two artists, Richard Elaver and Wayne Sutton. Their work is inspired by shapes and patterns in nature and results in sculptures and functional objects, such as eyewear and jewelry. The forms are biomorphic, often combined with cellular patterns, creating voids and crevices that invite the viewer inside and through the object. Materials and techniques vary widely, including wood carving, metal fabrication, and 3D printing.

Starting from a background in metalsmithing, Wayne and Richard met at the UW Madison 25 years ago. Richard was an undergraduate, and Wayne an MFA student - both studying metalsmithing under Fred Fenster. Since then, both have taken different creative paths. Wayne has become more focused on wood and sculpture, having previously created functional objects (e.g. teapots and utensils). Richard has recentered around digital fabrication and computer-aided-design, having previously focused on handcraft (blacksmithing and jewelry fabrication). The exhibition will feature new/recent works. It will also include 3 collaborative works developed by both artists working together.