Wesley Wofford, an American figurative sculptor born in 1972, embarked on a remarkable journey from the silver screen to the serene mountains of Western North Carolina. Originally hailing from Georgia, Wofford ventured to Hollywood in his early twenties to explore the world of special makeup effects for film. His talent soared, earning him an Emmy and an Academy Award for his groundbreaking work with silicone prosthetics. Despite achieving acclaim in the industry, he felt a longing for a more impactful art form—one that could intricately weave emotion and narrative into a more permanent art form.
Early Years & Work
In 2001, Wofford made the pivotal decision to return to the East Coast with his wife Odyssey and two children, establishing his art studio amidst the tranquil landscapes of Western North Carolina. Since then, his studio has become a sanctuary for creativity, providing him with a balance of life between nature, family, and artistry.
Wofford's sculptures stand as testaments to the power of presence, blending dynamic forms with intricate textures to evoke profound emotional responses. His intimate portraits, in particular, resonate with a depth of feeling that transcends bronze, inviting viewers into the inner worlds of his subjects.
As a Fellow and Past Board Member of the National Sculpture Society, Wofford's contributions extend far beyond his studio. He is also an Elected Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and a Signature Member of the Portrait Society of America. His impact spans both cinematic and fine art realms, with gallery representation worldwide and features in prestigious publications and media outlets such as CNN, the New York Times, Harvard Journals, and Upworthy, including being featured on multiple magazine covers.
Today
In 2019, Wofford sculpted his first historical monument, "Harriet Tubman: The Journey to Freedom," igniting a fervor for using public sculpture as a catalyst for positive change. The overwhelming response to this monumental work awakened an activism within him, inspiring him to embark on a mission to elevate the untold stories of our collective history. Wesley and Odyssey created traveling exhibitions of Harriet Tubman that have graced over 25 venues, sparking hundreds of public programs and initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and education about America's unsung heroes.
Wofford’s primary focus has shifted towards monumental works, collaborating with communities and fellow activists to bring to light forgotten stories from our shared history. His sculptures are located at important historical sites across the United States, from the Dorchester County Courthouse in Maryland, where Harriet Tubman began her journey to become an American icon, to Marksville, Louisiana where Solomon Northup regained his freedom. Wofford's monumental installations and portraits can also be found at the Nebraska State Capitol, the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and the Women’s Freedom Park in Franklin, North Carolina.
Through his art, Wesley Wofford intertwines threads of history, humanity, and hope, reminding us of the indomitable spirit that resides within us all. Each sculpture honors the past, illuminates the present, and inspires the future, leaving an enduring legacy that contributes to the ongoing journey towards a more equitable world.