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Eye on Artist Lecture Series: Ulrich Pakker

Join us for a talk by artist Ulrich Pakker, who will illuminate sources of inspiration behind his artwork. Reception with light food and drink in the gallery with the artist's work will take place immediately afterward.

Ulrich Pakker was born in 1951 in Essen, Germany. He grew up in a post-World War II, bombed out industrial city undergoing a massive rebuilding effort - making innovation and problem-solving a part of his life. At age 14, he began an apprenticeship in working sheet metal. He learned the basics of drafting, layout and materials. He began to build his skill set, his work ethic, and a sense of aesthetics involving meticulous craftsmanship. In these early years he developed a fascination with the curvilinear form.

He came to the United States in search of the sort of freedom only found in the High Sierra and on fishing boats in the Bering Sea. In a small Eskimo village on the Arctic Circle, Ulrich began his art journey, carving tiny vessels and jewelry out of fossilized walrus ivory. These early artworks were inspired by the wilderness and the people of Alaska. He immersed himself in visual narratives spoken through carved ivory. Ulrichs self-awareness as an artist began to take shape.

When he moved to Seattle, he met and married his muse, Pamela. They work together, he in the studio conceptualizing forms, and she at the computer, collaborating with 3-dimensional modeling tools to help resolve design and feasibility issues. Final organic shapes are executed in stainless steel and bronze.

Ulrich's solo show at BIMA, Visions Rendered, will be on view in the Lovelace Gallery through October 1, 2017.