Bondo originated as a tool for auto-body mechanics as an alternative to using lead for fixing and filling dents and imperfections. Original Bondo is an easily manipulated polyester resin, when mixed with the accompanying hardener, catalyzes the polyester resin to produce a hard but sandable fleshy colored material. The arbitrary application of Bondo in the pieces 7 Degrees Advanced, Ergonomics, Ladder Bar, Overhead, and 6 Degrees of Rake are reflections of the additive and reductive methods used to attain a specific composition in regards to the structure that it is applied to. I utilize box type forms that are created by building wooden frames, then enclosing the forms by applying plywood. I use the box form as a stand-in for the human hand to assure the viewer that the objects are in fact man-made.
When viewing the box forms of Ladder Bar, 7 Degrees Advanced, and Overhead, my intentions are to utilize the Bondo to unify each box structure as a whole. I remove the organic flaws that are inherent in wooden substrates that I manufacture, along with the nail indents and seams that could possibly stop the eye from traveling across the whole composition. Although I am exerting a large amount of control over the surface quality, there is still a level of chance that is taken with the mixing process. A little less or more hardener results in a value color of the material changing each time it is applied.In order to keep the viewer’s eye moving, I intentionally apply the Bondo in random swatches across the panel so that the values will intermingle. While moving in and out of a monochromatic scale, it also creates an implied perception of depth and fluctuation that is intrinsic to the materials natural properties. The remnant that is retained on the surface of the planar elements of my pieces serves as a record of the process and material.
