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Dunite Detail
The Yeaman Grid

Sculpture

Michael E. Yeaman (b. 1957, Washington State, USA) is a contemporary stone sculptor based on Orcas Island, Washington. He specializes in creating abstract geometric forms using geologically complex stone with unique origin or genesis stories. His academic and professional experience as an international geoscientist developed his ability to deeply “see” into his medium.  Yeaman is best known for his sculptures that feature broken remnants of cubes, spheres, columns, and other structured shapes, evoking a sense of ancient architecture. His works combine sharp angular elements with the natural, weathered edges of the stone, giving each piece a unique character emphasizing the stone’s fascinating geologic story. His sculptures often contain a signature of early human cognition, reflected in the rational grid of lines that denote humanity's evolutionary journey in reasoning.

Geometry
Geometry
Geology
Geology
Genesis
Genesis

Yeaman’s artistic approach is deeply rooted in his background as an earth scientist, which influences his exploration of "Deep Time" — the concept of the vast timescale over which the Earth has evolved. His work is informed by both scientific and sensory experiences, with the tactile process of sculpting providing a pleasurable connection to the material. He uses diamond tools and intensive water polishing to create his forms and finishes. Yeaman’s pieces resonate with a sense of calm and order, reflecting the philosophical roots of ancient Greek ideals of perfect forms, inspired by the shapes of Platonic solids. The subject matter of his sculptures also intertwine themes of human evolution and the origins of artistic expression, specifically the “cognitive” grids seen in early stone markings. These grids are believed to have been integral to the development of human reasoning.

 

Yeaman rarely participates in exhibitions, focusing instead on creating works for his own personal sculpture garden and home collections. He does host an annual public weekend tour at his studio, showing his current work each summer. He is an active participant in the Northwest Stone Sculptors Association (NWSSA), serving as an abstract art historian and geologic educator.  He regularly attends the annual two-week long NWSSA International Stone Sculpting Symposiums. His works are celebrated for their deep connection to the geological and human history embedded in the stones he sculpts, making them both a visual and intellectual exploration of form, geologic time, and culture.

For addtional detail on his work visit Michael's sculpture website: www.michaeleyeaman.com

Artist's Studio

Artist at work

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