Sam Moyer is comfortable dealing with heavy materials. A Brooklyn-based artist who works with marble, canvas and metal, Moyer and her unwieldy sculptures conjure images of a Frank Stella/Michael Heizer hybrid. This fall, she joined Sean Kelly gallery, where we imagine monumental moves are already in the works.
How do you know a work you've made is good? Good is hard, done is easier. Good comes later.
What teacher did you learn the most from in school? I have been lucky with teachers. I have had great ones in and out of the confines of school. It feels like a collection of experiences, some momentary, some expanded. From single studio visits to years of support, here is the short list: Ivan Witenstein, Jessica Stockholder, Andy Grundberg, Jim Hodges, Pam Lins, Jan Avgikos, Lynda Benglis, Michael Smith, Michel Auder.
What was your first gallery experience? My friend Erin Somerville curated me into a show at Andrew Kreps Gallery in 2007.
If you could trade with anyone, who would it be? David Smith, because I think it would be fun.
Do you live with your own work? Would you? I do live with a few works because I have a nice partner that likes to have them up, but I prefer living with his work. There are pieces I have made that I miss and wish were still with me.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received? Be a good listener, and move to New York.
Ode to Hans Ulrich Obrist, do you have any unrealized projects? So many. I love land art.
How did you fund your first works? I always had to work, but I remember calling my mom in college to see if she would lend me $200 for Bondo and pink insulation foam. I had to present a full proposal, but I got the grant.
What are you working towards? Currently working on a couple group shows, and I have to start chipping away at my next New York show that will be at Sean Kelly.
When you aren't in the studio, where are you? At the beach with my husband and our dog, Fran.
In your practice, what comes naturally to you and what do you have to force? Making the work is the most natural part for me. I love to work. Figuring out what to order for lunch is hard.
