Artist Profile: Christopher Conte

Artist: Christopher Conte

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Christopher Conte

How do you describe your work to those who are unfamiliar with it?
My work is a combination of things I love. I simply build the things I wish I had. My work expresses my fascination with advanced technology, specifically cybernetic organisms mixed with my admiration of relics from the past. Cyber-Mechanical Sculpture is perhaps the best way to describe it.

What is your creative process like?
Most often, I come up with a general concept, such as an insect, and then set out to hunt down parts which lend themselves well. Sometimes sketches play a roll, but more often I work with the parts alone. I prefer silence over music and often get lost in the process for hours on end.

What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?
Working in the field of prosthetics has given me a unique opportunity to be continually inspired by the merger of the organic and the mechanical. A strong theme in my work. The training has made me very familiar with space age materials such as carbon fiber and titanium while at the same time made me comfortable working with more common materials such as stainless steel and aluminum.

Is there a tool or material that you can’t imagine living without?
Without question, I can’t live without a Dremel (or rotary tool).

Who are your influences?
Leonardo DaVinci was perhaps the first artist I became fascinated with. H.R. Giger was also a strong early influence in my work and still lives within the spirit of what I do to this day. Studying his paintings back in high school helped me see and understand beauty in a new way. Developing a working relationship with his agent, Leslie Barany has been a great honor for me. I have since joined the great company of artists Les represents.

What inspires you to create?
Robotics, medical science, antiques, precision engineering, science instruments, films, books, all serve as inspiration in the process among countless other things. I’m never really short on motivation or ideas, just short on time.

What inspires you to keep going when the work gets frustrating or tough?
Sometimes it’s best to put something down for a while and look at it with fresh eyes the next day. Most of my mistakes I write off as research and development.

What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?
I’d say, keep doing what you love. Surround yourself with other work that you love. If you keep at it, the love and dedication will be evident in the work and recognized some day.