Benediction

About Benediction

This intriguing mask cast in bronze by Dale Dunning is reminiscent in form of ancient tabletop sculptures designed as objects used in worship. Titled Benediction (meaning ‘blessing’) it features a face, eyes closed, mouth open that is framed by a series of small, outstretched hands, a detail also added to the base it sits on. The Canadian sculptor has become known for his finely crafted contemporary work that uses the human head as a metaphor for our collective experience.

“My sculptures are objects of reflection and contemplation. The head that I employ for most of my work is generic, non-specific, genderless, and egg-like in form and intention.
I look on them as a mirror which reflects back the observer’s experience in new combinations and associations. The works are open-ended with no didactic intent other than to see new possibilities.” Dale Dunning

Dunning holds a Master of Fine Arts Degree from Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan. While earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Mt. Alison University, Dunning studied under Lawren P. Harris (son of Group of Seven member, Lawren S. Harris) and George Tiessen. Dunning has exhibited across Canada and his work is held in private, corporate and public collections including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Robert McLaughlin Gallery, the McIntosh Gallery at Western University, the Carleton University Art Collection, and the National Library of Canada.