David G. Yocum
Delicate work from rugged hands with poetic soul
In the quiet of the evening or the budding rays of dawn an artist works his craft while the Earth is still. The sleepy sounds of nature fill the air and glimmers of inspiration visit the imagination as ideas form for the next project. Projects that tranform into delicate wooden creations or images that capture a moment on film for the world to see. Each captivate the viewer and reveal a deeper part of an artistic soul.
In meeting this artist and recent Bucci Endowment Award winner, many thoughts come to mind. His rugged exterior for one. His physique touts a fella who is no stranger to hard work. His calloused hands tell stories of hours of toil and craftsmanship. His features carry the glimmer of creativity and the sincerity not often seen in today's world. In speaking with this gentle giant, this cover only tells a brief story of depth of this man and featured Zanesville Appalachian Art Project artist.
His abilities in wood are captivating. With creativity spurred on by the aromatic scent of cedar and walnut, his creations demonstrate a keen eye to detail and a fond affection and respect for the wood it was created from. From his keepsake boxes to his delicate Christmas ornaments, his work has evolved from classic simplicity to the elegant inclusions of scroll work and a keen attention to the tiniest of details in finishing work.
His photography reveals an acute awareness of moments one might miss in the hustle and bustle of everyday living. In considering his photography, this artist states "I have always enjoyed taking pictures…lots of pictures. I can’t draw or paint - photography is my way of doing those things. I get to show people how the world looks to me. By shooting a particular building or part of a building, an insect, bird, event, just whatever, by taking those pictures someone can look at them and see how I see them."
In viewing the art of David Yocum, you are viewing his soul. This humble artist attributes much of his success to Don and Ellen Brozio. "Ellen", he states, "encourated me to try new things and to enter the Festival of Trees. I never thought of my work as something show-worthy or even something someone might want to buy. In my three years of entering I have won 1st place twice and 3rd place once!" In speaking of Ellen and Don he says "They were always full of praise and encouragement. They are great people who gave me the desire and confidence to keep at it." With great sincerity he states "I doubt they know how much influence they had on my decisions not to throw in the towel." His recollection of winning the Bucci Endowment Award still brings surprise as he feels there are many more artists in the community that give more than he does. "I still think the honor should have been given to someone more worthy than I. To find out that I was nominated by artists whom I respect for their ablities, friendship, willingness to give and help others....it just humbles me more." He continues "All I do is what comes naturally to me. If I can help someone out...I will. All I've ever asked in return is for that person to "Pay it forward". Most of those that I have helped give so much of themselves to others that I consider it a little payback for what they have done."
David finds that his hobbies help him with the everyday. It takes his mind off of what might be bothering him or it even helps him to work out a problem he is grappling with. He states "The ability and desire to be creative in multiple areas has had a very big impact on my life and has helped me cope with several issues and health problems." David continues "I have been met with nothing but kindness and encouragement from everyone. This came at a time when my morale was pretty low and I’m very thankful to everyone. I’ve had several health issues including surviving cancer twice and a life dose of radiation therapy. My wife, family, hobbies and friends at ZAAP and in the community have made all that quite bearable. I do what I can to keep busy and am always willing to help someone out if I’m able. I enjoy writing ZAAP’s website and preparing the artwork for display on the site each month. It makes folks here in town and out of town happy to look there each month and see the artwork or the work of a friend or relative. That’s what makes everything worthwhile, knowing someone is enjoying the site and everyone’s artwork."
He enjoys his participation in the ZAAP organization as it is a great foundation for budding artists. It is an opportunity to meet others with the same interest and exchange ideas and techniques. It offers them a place to showcase their work and get feedback on it. It's a self-esteem builder, in that they're always encouraged to keep trying new things and that their talent can only improve. By being with other artists and showing their work, it helps them feel more comfortable about joining other events and exanding their options within the art community.
-by Shelley Tolliver
I would like to think my loving wife Leanne for always being there by my side and supporting my choices. If not for her support, I wouldn't have continued working on my various hobbies.
Thank You Leanne, I'll Always Apprecieate Your Support and I Love You.
-David G. Yocum
