MARK VAN WAGNER

JUNE 13 - JULY 12, 2026

In combining movement with stillness, I make artworks that reference and combine various archeological, geological and biological characteristics. In essence they are investigations of the inner and outer landscape.

Over the years, I have developed a process of applying natural and pigmented sand collected from around the world, along with rocks, foam, and debris onto repurposed cardboard box armatures. Through spontaneous, gestural applications of glue and gesso, I scatter and layer innumerable sand particles to build textured surfaces.



I view sand as a literal medium for capturing material decomposition and the impermanence of time and place. By reassembling these particles into a concrete form, my work reflects the cycles of life and the nature of gross matter. These sculptures often depict moments of impact and the reverberations of force, balancing themes of conflict and ruin with humor and restoration to invite intimacy and introspection.