Jesus Moroles (1950-2015)

Granite Totem #1 and Granite Totem #2, 2007

2007.007.001 and 2007.007.002

Granite

Gift of Mrs. Barbara B. Duke, Mr. & Mrs. Michael E. Klein, Mr. & Mrs. Jeff C. Shatto, Mr. Duke Edwards, and Mr. & Mrs. Bradford Moody

 

Questions to consider when visiting Jesus Moroles’ sculptures Granite Totem #1 and Granite Totem #2:

 

• Do these sculptures look like they are moving or standing still?  What characteristics of the sculptures give them that appearance?

• How would you describe the texture of these totems?  Are they similar or different? Which textures are created by the artist and which are the natural granite?

• The totems have a rhythm to them with their curves and the patterns that are carved on them.  Can you imagine music matching with this rhythm?  What kind of music would it be?

• What do these totems remind you of, either in nature or in history?  Where else might you see forms like these?

• The totems are two separate sculptures that have been grouped together here at the museum.  Do they belong together?  Why or why not?

 

When describing his process, Jesus Moroles states, “All I do is play in granite.”  His Rockport studio on the Texas gulf coast is equipped with heavy equipment for moving, sawing, splitting, and polishing massive stones.  He allows the stone to help him discover the work of art as he begins tearing (splitting) the granite.  Moroles refines and sculpts some portions of his sculptures and leaves other portions raw, thus creating a balance between the man-made and natural aspects of the sculpture. 

 

Ritual is important in the creating of Moroles’ work.  In these sculptures, the ritual might be the patterns carved into the granite or simply the creation of the sculptures themselves.  

 

For more information about Jesus Moroles’ work, please view the following video clip:

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