Artist
Jeff Shaw
Project Note(s)
Digital photography in diptych format
Artist Statement
My project seeks to visually communicate pipes as art and pairing them with the individuals who smoke them.
For the most part, today’s pipes continue to be based on dozens of traditional shapes, sizes, materials, textures, and finishes. Pipes are classified as “factory made” (mass produced), “handmade” or “ Artisan.” Another special category is “Estate pipes.” Estate pipes are pre-owned pipes that can be, but not necessarily, ever smoked. Estate pipes’ origins can be traced back many decades to the original carver or production series. The most unique and expensive pipes from each category listed above, are Artisan Pipes. These pipes are highly individualized pieces of art and the carver is limited only by his or her own imagination and skill level. Artisan pipes can be extremely expensive; reaching prices well into the thousands of dollars.
As you view my piece, take note of the shape of the pipe’s bowl, its stem, its size, materials, texture, and colors. What conclusions might you draw about about the pipe smoker on based on his physical appearance and the pipe he is smoking?
Biography
As a retired professional, I know about conformity. However, as an individual, I’m for setting aside life’s artificially opposed boundaries; especially when it comes to art. I am always eager to share my unique artistic vision. Whether others appreciate my art, just plain don’t get , or can do it better, my work is a visual manifestation of an artistic freedom to see things my way. Love my art, or hate it, it represents me and it’s boundary free.
