We are thrilled to spotlight Kurt Palmquist, an artist creating a world of wood art with his extraordinary creativity. For more on our social media post, click here.
In the heart of Montana, Kurt Palmquist crafts sculptures that blend geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and intricate textures. His work reflects a unique fusion of architectural precision and artistic freedom, born from a lifelong fascination with form and light.
Palmquist’s artistic journey began in Helena, Montana, where he grew up surrounded by a diverse cast of creative influences – architects, teachers, entrepreneurs, skiers, and pilots. This eclectic upbringing laid the groundwork for his unconventional approach to art and design.
Kurt Palmquist’s geometric sculptures begin with pencil and paper, where form and precision meet creative freedom.
After studying Graphic Design at Montana State University-Bozeman, Palmquist cut his teeth in Seattle’s corporate design world. But the mountains called him back in 1990, and he returned to Bozeman with his wife Denise. Together, they built successful graphic design and marketing firms, leaving their mark on corporate identities, packaging, and marketing campaigns across various industries.
Three decades of client work honed Palmquist’s skills, but also stirred a desire for unfettered creativity. In his 50s, he made the bold decision to pursue fine art full-time. “I was done renting my creativity to clients,” Palmquist says, acknowledging the challenge of starting an art career later in life.
Palmquist’s creative process is a dance between traditional and digital methods. He begins with pencil sketches, then moves to computer software for rapid experimentation and precise production. However, he consciously avoids 3D rendering to preserve an element of surprise in the final assembly.
With ‘Reviver,’ Kurt Palmquist explores the dynamic interplay of geometric forms and vibrant color. This acrylic on wood piece draws viewers into a captivating dance of motion and light, offering a striking balance between precision and fluidity. A reflection of life’s continuous movement, ‘Reviver’ embodies the artist’s bold vision of form in flux.
“I strive to seamlessly integrate technology into my artistic vision,” Palmquist explains. “It assists with efficiency in the creative process and precision in production. But I ensure it remains a tool to support my vision, not dominate it.”
His sculptures explore three-dimensional geometric forms, inspired by architectural structures and the interplay of light and shadow. Working with wood, acrylic, and various texture mediums, Palmquist creates pieces that are visually striking and thought-provoking.
‘Frozen Solitude‘ captures the quiet beauty of Montana’s winter landscape, where the stark stillness of snow and the gentle flow of a hidden stream evoke a sense of peaceful isolation. Kurt Palmquist’s mastery of texture and form brings this serene vision to life.
When he’s not in his studio, Palmquist can be found on the slopes of Bridger Bowl, where he works as a ski instructor. He also serves as Chair of the Montana State University School of Art Advisory Council, giving back to the institution that helped shape his artistic foundation.
Kurt Palmquist’s work stands as a tribute to the power of reinvention and the enduring allure of geometric form. His sculptures offer viewers a chance to explore the boundaries of space, color, and structure – a visual journey through the artist’s unique perspective on the world around us.
Kurt Palmquist meticulously assembles his geometric sculptures, where every layer and contour is carefully placed to balance precision with creative flow.
Stay updated with Kurt Palmquist’s latest works and exhibitions by following his Artrepreneur profile. For a glimpse into his creative process and daily inspirations, check out his Instagram.
