David Cusick

From an early age David realized his affinity with clay and the earth. As a child, he began sculpting with mud from his own back yard. These sculptures ultimately led to his current work in terra-cotta and stoneware. He also developed a profound interest in and obsession with tribal art, more specifically African art. David has been collecting African art since the age of 13 and has amassed one of the largest collections in Wisconsin, comprising nearly 450 pieces.

David has studied at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and received degrees in anthropology and ceramics. His work in terra-cotta is heavily influenced by African forms but also draws upon pre-Columbian sources. He creates his own version of tribal works. He does not finish his pieces with glaze but instead creates finishes and patinas utilizing various natural and chemical pigments, dyes and stains. On occasion he incorporates raffia, cotton, hemp, beads and cowrie shells.