story
This work brings together aspects of the physical world that have fascinated me for years. I am attracted to complex things that integrate dissimilar materials with beauty and purpose. Seating fascinates me for its intimate relationship with the human body, and how a sculptural rendering can echo that relationship. Finally, the work embodies my passion for things aeronautical, particularly the elegant design and the composition of early aircraft.
After spending three decades creating product designs and manufacturing process solutions in the field of custom industrial furnishings, I have had the opportunity to pursue my personal interest in artistic integration of aluminum, steel, wood, and polymers. Travelling in Europe and the United States, I was inspired by the work of other industrial designer/artists such as Mark Newson, and manufactured art objects such as Herman Miller' Aeron chair (on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York).
With the Aviator series, I aspire to create an industrial sculpture evocative of early aviation that is functional, yet engages the viewer to embark on a journey - a journey to explore it's seductive curvilinear shape, the handcrafted technical details that become visible through a slow walk-around, and the inner workings and subtleties that are revealed through the semi-transparent suspension fabric.
I do my own work and aim to achieve the highest possible level of proficiency with each material. I've spent over 3000 hours on design, building prototypes, crafting components, and completing Aviator 1. The process requires the mastering of technical skills and getting into the right head space for each phase of work. The work requires each element to merge together in perfect harmony: my ability to personally work each material and “flow” into the next is a gift I cherish and feel compelled to apply to my art.
There is no doubt in my mind that I am doing the right thing at this point in my life.
David Catta
November 12th, 2009
