S1,E27: Sculptor - Ben Hammond
Embarking on a journey through the life of Ben Hammond, we're introduced to a narrative that is as textured and intricate as the sculptures he creates. Ben's story begins in the unassuming town of Blackfoot, Idaho, where his initial experiences with building and farming laid a foundational appreciation for the tangible and the crafted. As a sculptor and yoga instructor, Ben has learned to shape more than just clay—he has sculpted a life that mirrors the artistry and mindfulness evident in his creations.
The podcast delves deep into Ben's transformative journey, highlighting his leap of faith from a secure college path to the uncertain yet exhilarating world of fine art. It was in the raw and tactile experience of a foundry where Ben's love for sculpture truly ignited—a place where bronze casting spoke to his roots in hands-on creation. His decision to drop out of college and pursue sculpting full-time is a testament to the power of following one's passion, a move that was underpinned by the unwavering support of his wife and his innate drive to master the craft.
As Ben transitioned from mentee to master, we gain insights into the solitary nights spent in a makeshift basement studio, the balance struck between the guidance of his mentor, Blair Buswell, and the pursuit of an independent artistic identity. This portion of his life is a masterclass in the importance of collaboration and the pursuit of mastery, showing that even the most skilled hands are forever learning and evolving.
But the narrative of Ben's life takes an intriguing turn with the introduction of yoga, which played a pivotal role in both his recovery from a severe back injury and his subsequent transformation into a beacon of resilience within his community. The practice of yoga, much like the act of sculpting, became a medium for Ben to express and embed his personal passions into his daily life, diverging from the professional to reveal the true heart of the artist.
The podcast not only paints a portrait of an artist's evolution but also touches upon the intimacy of the mentor-mentee relationship. We are given a rare glimpse into the trust and educational bond formed between Ben and Blair as they navigated new artistic challenges together. This journey from apprenticeship to autonomy is rich with insights into the complexities of navigating the space between mentorship and individual acclaim.
The conversations are interspersed with personal anecdotes, from Ben's growing passion for rugby to the therapeutic nature of sculpting and the physical demands of the artistic work. Each story adds another layer to the complex individual that is Ben Hammond, a man who can effortlessly transition from the ruggedness of a farm to the serenity of a yoga studio, and from the intricacies of molding clay to the rigors of a rugby field.
As the episode draws to a close, we're left with the understanding that the essence of Ben Hammond's life and work lies in the continuous molding and remolding of self. Just as his sculptures take shape under his skilled hands, so too does his life, crafted with intention, passion, and an unyielding commitment to growth and renewal. It is a reminder that within every challenge lies an opportunity, and within every artist's story, there is a lesson on the artistry of living.
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