Tony Pedemonte

Tony Pedemonte’s (b. 1954) earliest works consist of abstract drawings that begin with a figure and become obscured with energetic mark making and sweeping gestures that reach beyond the paper’s edge. Eventually, Pedemonte began to incorporate materials within his immediate surroundings into his works on paper, including yarn and wood scraps. It was such tendencies that led to the eventual shift to the creation of three-dimensional sculptures, for which he is known.

Similar to his process for drawing, Pedemonte begins by constructing armatures of wood and reclaimed materials that become nearly concealed with layers of yarn and thread. Pedemonte works with high energy and intention, following his intuition and rarely pausing to consider his next move. His sculptures are distinguished by their smooth texture, limited palette, and geometrically driven configurations that simultaneously conceal the work’s interior and offer intimate views through complex webs left open in its fibrous layers.

Although Pedemonte is mostly nonverbal, he often labels his sculptures as sea animals, influenced by his family’s fishing excursions. Pedemonte’s energetic practice is akin to an athletic or performative feat—his process and aesthetic are grounded by the use of his body as a tool for expression.

Pedemonte is a recipient of the 2021 Wynn Newhouse Award.