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The idea comes first. Doug Tuner gets his ideas from many sources and keeps a notebook of concepts as they occur to him. He first writes a verbal description and sometimes makes a quick sketch of poses, then develops the concept through sketches or computer models. The sculpture Pardon Me, for example, began as an homage to one of Michelangelo’s most famous works, and a way to utilize the nude figure in western art; it also looks at the question: if a man is nude, how can you tell he’s a cowboy?
Because sculpture is a three dimensional art form, from the initial conception, the artist must think in 3D and consider how a piece will look from every direction. In his work, there is Eye Candy or interesting detail from every angle, as well as a single viewpoint that embodies the concept.
Turner’s sculptures are often conceived of as a group of two or three related pieces. Each sculpture can stand alone but is also part of a larger concept. The Saloon Triptych is a perfect example; alone, each sculpture is an interesting character, but together they tell a story. Next time... is also part of a set, Although the second sculpture is yet to be realized. Next Time... depicts a cowboy recently thrown from his horse. Hoof prints in the ground imply the horse, but the horse itself will be is a natural companion piece.
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