Charles Osawa, an American sculptor, uses recycled materials and resin to create thought-provoking works. His pieces, often described as abstract and architectural, delve into the current state of society by preserving the broken reflections of humanity within the confines of his unique medium. Osawa’s work is not only a testament to his artistic vision but also a commentary on modern culture and the industrial processes that shape it.
Born and raised in the United States, Charles Osawa found his passion for art and design early in life. His interest in transforming everyday objects into something extraordinary led him to pursue studies in interior design and architecture at the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York. Graduating with Departmental Honors from the BFA Architectural Design Department in 2008, Osawa honed his skills in ratio, proportion, and the art of design. This academic background significantly influences his sculptural work, providing a foundation of structural integrity and aesthetic balance.
Osawa’s sculptures are primarily composed of recycled materials and epoxy resin. This choice of medium is not only environmentally conscious but also symbolically rich, reflecting themes of preservation and transformation. By encapsulating torn and crushed found objects in resin, Osawa captures moments of destruction and decay, freezing them in time.
One of Osawa’s works is “The Crystal Mace of Trash,” also whimsically known as “The Crystal Club for Clubbers.” This piece exemplifies his use of materials and historical techniques. Crafted from resin and discarded objects, the mace has the appearance of crystal, merging beauty with a commentary on waste and consumption. The design is rooted in medieval swordsmithing methods, employing traditional concepts of ratio and proportion. Despite its robust appearance, the mace is sized to fit into a large handbag, adding a layer of practicality and modern-day relevance to its historical inspiration.
Osawa recently completed a 36-piece series, each work continuing his exploration of societal themes through the adaptive use of industrial production procedures and technology. His sculptures often draw on modern contemporary culture, reflecting the complexities and contradictions of our time. By integrating found objects into his resin structures, Osawa creates a dialogue between the discarded and the preserved, challenging viewers to reconsider the value and impact of everyday materials.
Osawa states, “I see art as a way to capture and reflect the world around us,” he explained. “By using recycled materials, I’m not just making a statement about environmental sustainability; I’m also preserving fragments of our collective experience. Each piece tells a story of transformation, from waste to art.”
Osawa’s approach is deeply influenced by his architectural background, as seen in the structural precision and balance of his sculptures. “Architecture taught me to think about space, form, and the relationship between objects,” he said. “In my sculptures, I aim to create a sense of harmony and tension, where each element contributes to the whole.”
Looking ahead, Osawa is excited about continuing to push the boundaries of his medium. He plans to experiment with new materials and techniques, always with an eye towards fresh perspectives and societal reflection. His upcoming projects include a series of larger-scale installations that will explore the intersection of technology and nature, further blurring the lines between the artificial and the organic.
Charles Osawa’s work is a compelling blend of art, design, and social commentary. Through his unique use of recycled materials and resin, he captures the essence of contemporary culture, preserving its broken reflections in abstract and architectural forms.
