Isaac Kidder is an artist who specializes in both 2D and 3D work, focusing on metal (the above photo shows a bike rack built by Isaac at the new Kutzky Market) and wood sculpture, painting and photography.

In his work, Isaac uses the theme of connectivity and oneness in order to convey the ideas of Divine and Universal Love — unconditional love, compassion, healing, forgiveness and peace.

His intention is to have viewers experience a positive internal shift that inspires and connects them to the people in their communities, environment and world. To fully engage the viewer, much of Isaac’s work is hands-on/interactive. He also believes art can serve as a tool to heal and transform lives.

Photo: Isaac Kidder — Photo: Isaac Kidder

In his art he aims to test humanity’s idea of perfection, and question and reevaluate any perceived imperfections. Isaac’s sculptures have been displayed at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts (Wayzata, Minn.) and Café Steam (Rochester). Other projects include graphic and web design.

Prior to establishing himself in Minnesota, Isaac spent four years in Los Angeles as a photographer, composer, and musician (vocals, percussion, guitar, piano). Outside of art, Isaac is involved in energy/spiritual healing, as well as healing through arts and music. Isaac's work will be included in one of the four crates for this season's Community Supported Art program by C4.

Isaac was kind enough to sit down with me and answer some questions about his work and what shareholders can look forward to.

How long have you been creating art?

I have been creating art as long as I can remember. As a child I was often engaged in creating 2D and 3D projects [like] creating, drawing and coloring my own books and building models. In 2006, I graduated from St. Olaf College in Northfield with majors in biology and studio art (focusing on photography and sculpture). A year after graduating I moved to Los Angeles to work in film, music and art. I returned to Minnesota in 2011 and now create works of art in various mediums — sculpture, photography and painting.

What inspires you?

Any and everything. Inspiration can strike at any moment and in the most unexpected ways. The key for me is being open to it and trusting what comes. It’s like listening to your intuition, your inner voice or your heart. This can be a challenge and a balancing act between the rational and irrational. Sometimes a good or important idea will present itself and the logic brain will want to over analyze and/or reject it. It’s important to allow and trust the artistic process so that the idea can be expressed.

What medium/media do you work in primarily?

I primarily work in sculpture (metal and wood), painting and photography. It tends to go in phases, and recently I’ve been focusing on sculpture and painting. I also like to combine mediums in some of my work.

Why do you think it is important to share your work with others?

I receive joy from sharing my art with others. My goal is to inspire healing in others, and to connect people to their communities and world. While creating artwork can be therapeutic and healing for me, it can also be a catalyst for healing and transformation in the viewer. This is why it is important to share my work with others.

What other projects are you working on?

I have a few projects going at the moment. A couple of them are metal sculptures, one larger scale (over 6 feet tall). Typically I’ve worked in steel, and now I’m experimenting with different metals, like copper. I am also working on a series of larger scale paintings (3 feet and over) inspired by the principles of Divine Love and my work and experiences as an energy/spiritual healer.

C4 is seeking subscribers, to launch its second season of Community Supported ART (CSA) program. A one-year subscription or "share" for $325 will include 4 crates. The crates, which will be distributed at quarterly events, are centered around local artists' work, with additional creative/local items to enhance the experience. Interested subscribers should contact crbuckrose@hotmail.com.

About Cassandra Buck: Cassandra is a middle school art teacher, as well as a full-time artist. She is involved with the local art community and is an advocate for women in the arts. She is also the creator of the city's first contemporary artist collective, Gallery 24. Cassandra lives in Rochester with her husband and daughter.