Star Liana York
Renowned sculptor, Star Liana York, spent her early life in Maryland, the daughter of a ballerina and a woodworker. She attended the University of Maryland, the Institute of Art in Baltimore, and the Corcoran College of Art and Design in Washington, D.C. where her artistic abilities were nourished ... moreRenowned sculptor, Star Liana York, spent her early life in Maryland, the daughter of a ballerina and a woodworker. She attended the University of Maryland, the Institute of Art in Baltimore, and the Corcoran College of Art and Design in Washington, D.C. where her artistic abilities were nourished and encouraged.
But her talent came to full fruition in 1985, when Star moved to New Mexico and fell in love with the creatures and cultures of the area, adding to the rich diversity of her work. She currently lives with her menagerie of animals on a ranch in northern New Mexico.
"The sculpted figures are so inviting and York so unassuming that before long, you have entered into a pact with her and have become involved in her vision." --New Mexico Magazine, May 1993.
Since arriving in the Southwest, Star's body of work has reflected the cultural diversity and history of the area. She is also inspired by the native wildlife and mythology, and the mysteries of ancient sacred sites.
Star's source of inspiration for a significant part of her work comes from Native American and Western cultures. She sensitively captures their cultural identity, whether indigenous or ranch life, and celebrates them by preserving her observations through bronze.
Animals, especially horses, have been another source of inspiration. Since the purchase of her first horse in high school, Star has been intrigued by the fluidity of line and mass of horse anatomy, as well as by the animal's fiery instincts. Star's sculptural depictions of the horse are based on her interpretation of the equine image through history.
"I'm much more comfortable with animals. I trust the emotion of animals and horses. I understand where they are coming from and their behavior is honest."
A prominent sculptor, Star was chosen as one of the 30 most influential artists by Southwest Art Magazine. Her work has been featured on the cover of numerous magazines, including Southwest Art, Art Talk, New Mexico, and The Equine Image.
Star was honored in 1999 with a solo exhibition at the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
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