The Gallery ABQ
Albuquerque Contemporary Fine Art
Russell Bessette
Wood Sculpture
Art Bio
My early years contributed to my love of nature and the outdoors. My parents were outfitters in the Big Horn mountains of Wyoming. After wrangling our horses, which had been turned free in the woods at night, I was free to spend summer days riding to explore rivers, lakes and mountains when I was five and six.
I am a Vietnam veteran. After being discharged, I attended college with the help of $100 a month on the GI Bill. I have completed a BA in Western US History, an MA in Chinese History and an MS in Early Childhood Education.
During the Bicentennial era 1975-76, I worked as a Western historian and photographer for projects in Montana and Wyoming.
I retired in 2007, after nearly 30 years of teaching primarily Kindergarten in Miles City, Montana, and Austin, Texas.
Artist Statement
Nearing retirement, after nearly 30 years teaching Kindergarten, I started carving Diamond Willow, which is not a species of willow, but rather the result of a fungus that attacks 6 out of the hundreds of willow species. The “Diamonds” are an attempt to fight off the fungus, which it fails at and dies, but in the process creates beautiful wood. I am enthralled with this wood, it is exciting to see what will come out as I start carving. It sounds like a cliche, but the wood truly does speak to me.
Another favorite is driftwood, collected on river trips throughout the West and Southwest. There is a rich abundance of size, shape, texture, and coloration. With both woods I emphasize line, shape, color and contrast using wood burning.
Since moving to Corrales, I have expanded my carvings to include larger pieces that feature cliff dwellings, petroglyphs and arches inspired over many years rafting beautiful desert rivers throughout the Southwest. These include seven trips on the Colorado through Grand Canyon, as well as the Dolores, Yampa, Green, San Juan and Salt rivers.
I am looking forward to continuing to explore the beauty and culture of New Mexico.