Geological Survey No3

About Geological Survey No3

This contemporary abstract monumental stone sculpture is by David Perrett.

The captivating sculptural work of David Perrett is highly valued for its dynamic vision and raw beauty. Perrett uses stone, metal and lighting to create visually stunning monumental pieces that reflect the richness of stone’s natural textures and colours. Early in his life, his work as a canoe guide paddling through Ontario’s northern lakes ignited his love of the natural world. The colours, textures and forms found in nature inspire his work to this day.

This is part of a series that is, in the artist’s own words, ‘an ongoing exploration of stone as an element in our landscape and environment.” Two Canadian granite columns—a menhir (large upright standing stone) sit beside one another, each made up of five blocks stacked in descending size. Each block is separated by small aluminum cylinders that create gaps in the layers. The raw stone is sawed to reveal its inner ancient beauty, intricately detailed patterns. The exterior surface of the stone is rough and natural, with the interior surfaces honed to a matte smooth finish. At night, the sculpture is transformed into a glowing monolith as beams of light spill across the ground.

“This work contains thousands of views and landscapes that reveal themselves to the viewer only with time spent with the sculpture. For me, it is an object of contemplation in the same conceptual trajectory as Suiseki (Scholars Stones), each detail builds a story, and every person will find a favorite view or detail that they can give their time and focus to.” David Perrett
David Perrett grew up in Winnipeg and acquired a BFA from the University of Manitoba and an MFA from York University in Toronto. Perret works in stone, metal, and wood, and often adds electronics--lighting features to his sculptures. His work can be found in both public and private collections throughout Canada. The artist lives and works in his studio in Luskville, Quebec.