When you look at Alexis Joyner’s sculptures, it becomes obvious that familial relationships are at the core of his work. “I find myself drawn to the special bond between mother and child,” Joyner notes. “I often address social issues and concerns and I like to gently remind young folk that they don’t need to reinvent the wheel.” A native of Southampton County, Virginia, Joyner created his first three-dimensional pieces at age 12 by carving faces on walking sticks and canes. More serious explorations began at Virginia State College where he produced Mama, a soft-shaped canvas painting in the fall of 1974 and in 1975, his first large wood piece. Entitled Cherry, a depiction of Nat Turner’s wife rendered in black walnut, it is an homage to the legendary slave revolt of 1831 that occurred in the county where Joyner was born. Joyner would go on to earn an MFA from Norfolk State and Old Dominion Universities where he cites Dr. Rod Taylor (NSU) and Mr. Victor Pickett (ODU) as significant influences as well as the work of sculptor Elizabeth Catlett. “She was fearless in making statements and social commentary and her works were finished to a point of near perfection,” he says. Joyner’s work, which he describes as “visual sermonettes,” has been exhibited in a variety of venues, most recently at NSU’s James Wise Gallery, and select pieces can be seen at Arts of the Albemarle (516 E. Main St.). Inspired by history, nature, and memories, Joyner spends five to six days a week in his private studio (223 Rosecroft Dr.; 252-562-3957; by appointment) and while he enjoys working with a variety of media, wood and clay have been constants for him. “I have a complete love affair with wood,” he says. “Besides its beauty and warmth, it doesn’t require special equipment or a complicated process to finish a piece. Wood is an immediate process. Oh, and did I mention it’s a one-way process that includes mindless sanding and sanding and sanding? This is the part of the process I would love to farm out!” To view more of Alexis Joyner’s work, visit his Facebook page or give him a call and visit his studio. You’ll be amazed at the beautifully carved textures and rich wood tones of his sculptures, as well as his 40 years worth of collecting the tools of his trade! Simone Cooper is a publicist and branding specialist who is also a mid-century modern fanatic. When she’s not assisting clients with messaging, you can find her hunting for furniture and housewares from the 1960s. Liza Franco captures the moments of life that will one day be someone’s memories and links for generations to come. Her work includes, lifestyle, commercial, fine art and portrait photography.
When you look at Alexis Joyner’s sculptures, it becomes obvious that familial relationships are at the core of his work. “I find myself drawn to the special bond between mother and child,” Joyner notes. “I often address social issues and concerns and I like to gently remind young folk that they don’t need to reinvent the wheel.”
