Meet William Moore

From Art Talk series: Conversations with Creative Minds

William T. Moore III is an abstract sculptor whose artistic journey began with early influences from space exploration and religious statuary. Educated at the Cleveland Institute of Art and Kent State University, Moore developed a distinctive style that blends organic forms with deep personal reflections. His work, crafted from sustainable materials and guided by daily meditation, has been showcased internationally, reflecting his commitment to creating impactful and innovative art.

Avian Samurai

Many artists draw inspiration from their surroundings or personal experiences. What influences have shaped your work the most, and how do they manifest in your art? 

In 1994 I entered Kent State University to work on my graduate degree. One of my favorite art movements we studied was the Dadaists from the early twentieth century. Marcel Duchamp was one of the important masters of the movement. Following the genre, it taught me how art could communicate aspects of politics and anti-Politics, anti-aesthetics and the anti-idealistic. Though my art does have a sense of aesthetics there are hidden meanings to my artwork. Some personal, others more public.

While walking outside in Texas in winter of 2020 I came across a grove of oak trees that had hundreds of blackbirds in them. They were singing and rustling their wings together in a sound of such unison being so powerful that I was moved in the moment emotionally. In this moment I was overtaken with immense gratitude to the Great Creator. This gift of creation and my ability to absorb it, went to my core both intuitively and intellectually. From this time on when I am in my studio working, I make a conscious effort to invite my Higher Power into my heart and mind as I create my works of art.

Momma Chickadee

How do you choose the materials for your sculptures, and what significance do they hold for you?

My choice of materials is kiln dried lumber in domestic hard woods being soft maple, cherry and black walnut. I stay away from exotic woods as they are being overused and due to clearcut foresting their supplies are dwindling. I use an Amish lumber supplier that has a program for both replenishing the trees they take and taking trees from overgrown forested properties in the fertile Appalachian region of the United States.

❝How we manage our great forests says a lot about us as a species and our place here on this earth.❞

Conservation and thoughtful management of our resources should mean that we must not stop using our great resources. How we manage our great forests says a lot about us as a species and our place here on this earth. We only have one planet in our solar system that can sustain us. We need to protect it and cherish it for the generations after us so they can prosper, flourish and grow.

Serendipity Dancer

Do you have a favorite piece or series that holds a special place in your heart?

Please don’t think this is corny but my favorite pieces or series is the next one I am starting. I love the challenge and newness of making the next sculpture. I do not want to ever retire. The artists I apprenticed under and mentored me worked until they absolutely could not work anymore. I, like them, want to make artwork until I die. I pray to the Great Creator of all things, to grant me a long life of creating in His presence and time.

Avian Native

These maquettes serve as the foundation for William Moore's wood sculptures, which he enlarges from these smaller models. In the future, he plans to cast these sculptures in bronze once resources permit. Currently, they are displayed on the shelves in his studio's meeting room.

I love the challenge and newness of making the next sculpture. I do not want to ever retire. I, like them, want to make artwork until I die. I pray to the Great Creator of all things, to grant me a long life of creating in His presence and time."

– William Moore

How has Biafarin helped you gain visibility and recognition for your work?

Biafarin has given me the opportunity to exhibit my artwork in both solo and group exhibitions on the international stage. Though I do not know where these artworks are being seen or what doors they will open, I do get a great charge knowing my name and artwork is being seen in places I cannot even imagine. I am humbled to be fortunate enough to be included among such great world artists and their creations. I am looking for the diversity and inclusion of the many styles and genres showcased by the many artists represented by Biafarin and Exhibizone. Seeing what is new is always fun.

William's reflections are a testament to the power of perseverance, inspiration, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression. 

Visit https://www.instagram.com/wtmsculptor to learn more about William and stories behind his abstract forms, the meticulous process of carving wood, and the spiritual connection that fuels his creativity.