Willy Verginer, a wood sculptor on the edge of reality

As his name does not indicate, Willy Verginer is a full-fledged Italian, native from the province of Bolzano. Having made a name for himself by showing his work, in galleries and national museums, including the Venice Biennale, his reputation has finally reached beyond the transalpine frontiers with Human Nature, a series of sculptures for which he used a chainsaw to shape the wood.

Sculpted wood, the fetish material of Willy Verginer

This iconoclast artist has huge blocks of linden tree wood delivered to his workshop. First with a chainsaw, then a chisel, and finally with a few hints of acrylic to provide a final touch to his life-size characters. Thus, these take on stunning dimensions, but also realistic allures filled with intriguing fantasy.

Set down on a slab of grey cement, these characters seem to be truly enjoying the pool. © DR

Quite similar to a fantasy film, this statue seems to come to life. © DR

Statues conceived like interactive images

Volume, weight, natural materials moving about in a space where they are installed, these works are an open invitation to being touched softly. Yet these images in action, docile as statues, reach astronomical prices on the art market. Very rare pieces to be purchased as soon as possible !

The heroes of the artist send out positive waves to those who admire them. © DR