Craig Usher, (b. 1987), Is a New York native, receiving his  BFA  at SUNY Purchase, and MFA at the New York Studio School. Following the completion of his studies, Craig took an extensive Tour of Europe, culminating in an honored residency position at European Sculpture Park in Poland.  Upon his return, he was asked to assist an iron session class at Penland School of Craft.  Craig is now settled in his Ossining, NY Studio, facing the Hudson river, and battling it out with his sculptures. He continues to show and make work; developing as an artist, educator, and human being.  His current work embroils themes of rawness, landscape, and systemic imaginings.

I have a deep respect for classical sculpture, and have recently moved from working with large scale steel abstractions to more traditional subjects such as portraits. I feel that the way to understand where to go, is somehow found by reconnecting with the past. What artists have done for thousands of years has a reason and makes sense. In retrospect, I see my past work as metaphorically figurative. I am interested in the blending of progressive and traditional sculpture. Sculpture is a kind of vessel reflecting the self, which continues to communicate information beyond the work of the maker. This idea of transcendence is a powerful inspiration; one can move beyond one’s self to connect with others. It is in this way that I am moved to struggle. Sculpting is one way for an individual to make a mark, and counter the immense alienation of existence.