Spotlight: The Moment Before Becoming

Whenever I create a new sculpture, I think about those moments in life when everything feels like it is about to change. The Moment Before Becoming is my way of capturing that exact feeling.

When you stand in front of this piece, the first thing you will notice is a bright white core at the center. Colors move around it, with blues, reds, and golds swirling together in a moment that feels alive. The sculpture sits right at the point where something is both ending and beginning. It holds all the potential of what might come next.

Vibrant epoxy resin art with swirling red, yellow, and white patterns, textured details, and bubbles.

To me, this piece looks a bit like what you might see in an image from the James Webb Space Telescope. It reminds me of a star coming to life or clouds in space starting to form something entirely new. You do not need to know anything about astronomy to connect with it. If you have ever stood on the edge of a big decision, started a new chapter, or felt that sense of possibility before something begins, you might find a bit of your own story here.

What I hope you feel when you see this sculpture is the sense of anticipation and possibility. The energy and color are gathered and ready, just waiting for that next step forward. It is a frozen moment filled with hope.

This is not just something to look at. It is a feeling you can almost step into.

If you are curious to experience The Moment Before Becoming, you can see more photos and details here. If you are nearby, I invite you to visit the gallery and see it in person. The colors and movement truly come alive.

If you want to know more or see it up close, click here for details and availability.

An Inspiring Visit from Representative Rob Nosse to Art at the Geode

by Martin Eichinger

Martin Eichinger and Representative Rob Nosse speaking at Art at the Geode

A Warm Welcome to a Social Change Advocate

This week, we had the privilege of welcoming Representative Rob Nosse to Art at the Geode for an afternoon filled with conversation and exploration. Rob, who has represented Oregon’s HD 42 since 2014, is recognized for his deep commitment to social change. His focus lies particularly in behavioral health, housing, and LGBTQ+ rights. His visit provided a valuable opportunity to discuss the interconnection of art, policy, and community.

Rob’s legislative work has been transformative. As Vice Chair of the House Behavioral Health Care Committee, he has played a pivotal role in directing significant funding into behavioral health initiatives. Under his leadership on the Ways and Means Committee, Rob has helped channel over one billion dollars into these critical areas. This investment is one of the largest we have seen in decades.

Addressing Portland's Challenges Together

During our engaging conversation, Rob shared illuminating insights into the challenges faced by Portland. The city faces many issues, from housing shortages to addiction crises. Rob emphasized that thoughtful collaboration among various stakeholders can foster the necessary change. This collaboration can ultimately lead to innovative solutions addressing the pressing problems faced by our community.

At Art at the Geode, we firmly believe that art has a unique power to connect people. It can inspire creative solutions to complex problems. Rob echoed this sentiment, expressing his support for strengthening the arts ecosystem in Oregon. He recognizes the vital role art plays in shaping vibrant, resilient communities. His views align closely with ours—that creativity and innovation are instrumental in confronting the challenges our city faces today.

A Tour of Artistic Exploration

During his visit, Rob enjoyed a comprehensive tour of the gallery. He delved into the creative process behind our work, which ranges from intricate bronze sculptures to experimental polymer resin art. The tour showcased the blend of craftsmanship and vision that defines our artistic space.

Rob's curiosity and sincere engagement served as a reminder of the importance of having leaders who understand and champion the value of the arts. His presence at Art at the Geode symbolized the significance of arts advocacy in legislative discussions.

The Power of Art in Creating Change

As Portland looks towards its future, conversations with leaders like Rob Nosse inspire us. His steadfast dedication to equity, community, and creative solutions resonates deeply with the values we uphold at Art at the Geode. We know that art can be a powerful catalyst for change. It can bring communities together, sparking dialogue and promoting understanding.

Rob’s insights during his visit reinforced our belief that art is not just decorative but a critical element in addressing societal issues. It can stimulate conversations, initiate movements, and create empathy. When art becomes entwined with policy and community discussions, it can lead to transformative outcomes.

We are grateful for the time Rob spent with us at Art at the Geode. His insights and commitment to enhancing Portland’s livability for all exemplify the kind of leadership we aspire to foster in our community. As we continue our efforts, we look forward to maintaining this important dialogue about the role of art in societal change.

Moving Forward Together

In conclusion, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Rob for his visit. We appreciate the time he took to engage with us and share his vision for a better Portland. Art at the Geode remains dedicated to being a space where creativity meets social responsibility. We hope to welcome Rob back soon to continue exploring the intersection of art, policy, and community.

Thank you once again, Rob, for your insights and your unwavering commitment to making Portland a better place for all. Let’s keep this important conversation going!

Art, Space, and Epoxy: Martin Eichinger at the Reno Tahoe International Art Show

by Martin Eichinger

At the Reno Tahoe International Art Show, I had the chance to showcase my latest work alongside some truly talented artists. Walking through the exhibition hall, it was inspiring to see the range of pieces—from sculpture to painting to craft—and to connect with artists who bring such unique perspectives to their work.

I joined Varvàra Fern on a panel discussion on “AI and Sculpture” earlier in the day, a sculptor with a strong narrative in her pieces. She dives into themes like fairy tales and trauma, blending her past experiences with mythic storytelling.

Karl Lansing also spoke, touching on the irreplaceable human element in art. He’s right: there’s something we deliver through our hands and our craft that AI just can’t replicate.

Showing the translucency of Amorphous Polymer to a visitor of our booth.

At my own booth, I displayed a new series of epoxy polymer sculptures, inspired by space and the James Webb Space Telescope. I call them “Amorphous Polymer,” and their abstract forms reflect the universe’s vastness.

The pieces are all two-sided, each face offering something different, a nod to the dynamic energy in space that I wanted to capture.

Left to right: The Edge of Nova, Nebula Explosion, Out of The Void

One piece, Nebula Explosion, captures the burst of a star factory, a scene of immense power and scale. It served as the inspiration for a large polycarbonate display that was suspended above the booth. I’ve always been drawn to working with polycarbonate and epoxy, tough and versatile materials that let me explore layers, textures, and new technologies.

A polycarbonate reproduction of Nebula Explosion for the Reno Tahoe International Art Show 2024

This shift from bronze to epoxy has been an interesting evolution for me. I displayed one bronze at RTIA just to show the history of my work, but I’m embracing this newer medium, especially in expressing the cosmic theme. There’s something about space that compels me—the mystery, the infinite scale—and I try to bring that into each piece.

We had a great show with strong interest from collectors and artists alike. Once this work returns to Portland, it’ll be back on display at Art at the Geode Gallery, where I hope it continues to invite people to explore and wonder about the universe.