Inspired by Michelangelo, Rodin, Munch, and referencing both eastern and western mythologies, I arrange found and fabricated objects—rusted steel, broken glass, aged fabric, water—and transform them into meditative, ritualistic sculpture. I often use a palette of brown, orange rust, pale yellow and black to suggest the earthly elements, mortality, deterioration, preservation and the passage of time. These elements are also found in my drawings, paintings, monotypes and videos.

The role of the priest in society, objects of worship and mythology are ideas I explore in a push-pull process. I am strongly drawn to churches and the mystery within them; dark cathedrals, dimly backlit stained glass windows, ritualistic chanting, the smell and smoke of frankincense. These images move within the layers of my pieces.

Water and its relation to time is an integral part of my work. Often I use water dripping very slowly. Hard, dry, rusted metal objects with sharp edges are positioned to react to it. I also use oil as a preservative that seeps into rusted steel. Broken and shaped glass, aged fabric and oils act as dressing. I construct environments which, through controlled light, color and dripping water or oil, dissolve the background and invite the viewer to focus on the moment.

- Joseph Zuccarini