JD Perkin creates figurative ceramic and mixed media sculpture, inspired by human and animal forms. The surfaces are rich and organic, with agitated, colored and etched surfaces. Using industrial, traditional, and domestic materials, Perkin’s new work reflects upon the primal urge to create, destroy and then resurrect the human form. His scruffy voluptuous figures, and surfaces etched and stained with warm earth tones, suggest the passage of time and convey a sense of urgency. Animal/ human figures, half naked, strident, tattooed and comical hold court. By intermixing human and animal forms, he creates a dreamlike world of the imagination. Perkin’s use of color and pattern heightens his sculptures' physical and emotional charge. Seen in person, Perkin’s sculptures are thoughtful and inquisitive expressions, sometimes aggressive, sometimes restful, but always passionately felt.
A Portland native, J.D. Perkin has exhibited his work since 1982. He received a BS from Portland State University in 1984, with a focus on anthropology. While there, he also received an Award of Excellence in Painting from the School of Fine and Performing Arts. A large part of Perkin’s artistic development includes performance art. He received a grant from the Metropolitan Arts Commission (RACC) in 1990 for his performance piece “Dirt Box.” In 2007, Perkin collaborated with Anne Thompson on Second Skin, a sculptural installation for the Portland Art Center. His work has been featured at the Portland International Airport, the Bush Barn in Salem, and on Oregon ArtBeat.