Sculpture by Ty Crisp

July 1-29, 2016
Sculpture by Ty Crisp
Opening reception: Friday, July 1, 5:00-9:00 PM
Exhibition hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 6:30-9:30 PM. Please note, the Emporium will be closed on Monday, July 4, for the holiday.

Ty Crisp grew up fly fishing and collecting Native American artifacts with his father throughout southern Appalachia. As a third generation carpenter, his career began at an early age, from working in his grandfather’s shop to assisting his father in the field. Choosing travel over college in 1993, he spent the next two years exploring the diverse American landscape before resuming his craft. In 1995 he returned to Tennessee and traveled around the southeast constructing timber frame and log homes. In 1997 he moved to Charleston, SC where he maintained and restored historical downtown homes. Once again returning to Tennessee he dedicated himself to mastering cabinetry and finish carpentry. His love of woodworking quickly evolved into furniture making, joinery and design. Upon opening his first Studio in 2004 he began experimenting in metal work, concrete and stone. This combination of elements became a catalyst for interior and exterior design concepts. “Stirred by remnants found in barns, factories or abandoned in fields, I approach this work as an archeology of sorts; a gathering of essence, as I see it, excavating artifacts forged by industry, agriculture, use and decay,” says Ty Crisp. “I have a deep reverence for the beauty and authenticity that ripens from years of service, exposure to the elements, and the passing of time. I am drawn to the patina, sense of place, and the story evident in these objects. This is an introduction to a style of work and a process inspired by the music and mythology of Appalachia. I combine elements from farms, attics, sawmills and sheds throughout Tennessee to form sculpture, furniture, décor, and lighting.”