About this Sculpture
- Artist: Gert Olsen
- Medium: Vermont Marble
- Size: 42" x 12" x 25"
Sunning Bear
About the Artist
Sculptor Gert Olsen was born in Denmark, immigrated to Canada, and eventually made his way to the United States, where he became a citizen. He began his career as a woodcarver, experimenting with various techniques and materials. Over time, his practice evolved into stone carving, and today his sculptures are featured in galleries and collections around the world.
“I work with the natural texture and color of the stone to create representative sculptures of animals, human forms, and abstract shapes,” says Olsen.
Olsen traveled to Italy to personally hand-select the Carrara marble for this piece. He uses modern saws to rough out and shape the forms and then brings them to life by refining them with traditional hand tools like chisels.
Olsen is especially known for his minimalist, expressive bears. With simple forms and subtle gestures, his sculptures leave space for the viewer’s imagination to fill in the details. The bears often are imbued with a “humanness,” with endearing and playful gestures.
Location
502 Water St., Saugatuck, MI 49453
Experience this Sculpture
Walk around the sculpture.
Notice how this sunning bear is positioned low to the ground, just like someone relaxing in the park and sunning themselves on the grass.
Look at the base beneath the bear. How does it differ from the bear itself?
The rough texture of the base resembles a blanket, once again making the sculpture feel as if it fits within its surroundings.
Step closer to the sculpture.
The bear’s curved form creates an animal that appears soft and smooth. While most bears are rough and textured, this gentle bear invites touch. The marble’s subtle veining adds interest and character to the bear.
Now walk away.
Take a final look. Notice how the bear lies close to the edge of the blanket. This small detail suggests the bear is larger than it appears.
Its body curves gently from head to tail, with the head turned and gazing outward—content and enjoying the view.
