Rick Hartner- ‘Rooster’

Artist Statement: “Art doesn't always have to be shrouded in mystery or require extraction of some deep hidden meaning, rather it can be simply pleasing to the eye and bring a smile to the viewers face. My first goal is to create sculptures that exude a personal touch, an aspect of life that is increasingly absent in today's high tech world. We need more things that, even if just briefly, take us to a place within our imagination, either forgotten, or not previously visited. Goal number two? Never stop being a kid!" 

The Artist: Following a career in curbside recycling and composting, Rick Hartner began to take recycling to a higher level by creating sculpture from discarded materials. The results were not just assemblages of society's trash, but rather the creation of caricatures and objects that draw in the viewer and evoke a smile or outright laughter.

Rusted sheet metal became a phoenix rising from the fire. Old metal shelving emerged as Aunt Alice and Poopsie make a surprise visit. A well used trumpet came silently alive being played by the Jazz Man. Positive response to his work from the public was almost immediate in the form of sculpture sales and commissions. Aunt Alice promptly received recognition at the 2000 Del Mar Fair Art Show by receiving an Honorable Mention from the Judges and the Peoples' Choice Award from viewers.

In addition to whimsical caricatures, Rick also creates wall hangings, artistic gates, and furniture. While he works almost exclusively with recycled metal, commissions can also be created out of new metal, or objects provided by the customer.

Sitting Duck Studio was named after one of Rick's first sculptures. Not destined to be a "sitting duck" himself, Rick is busy daily at work in his studio.

To learn more about Rick Hartner visit his web site at Sitting Duck Studio or email: rick@sittingduckstudio.com

‘Rooster’ was donated to the Garden by Patrice Dunn in 2007