Ben Pierce is a veteran and Missouri native who found an outlet for his internal struggle by creating sculpture. He says: “I have been living with depression for many years (way before I began making art). Only recently have I begun to speak openly about it with friends and family. A lot of mental illness is suffered in silence- I am choosing to use my art as a way to help others speak up. Maybe someone will hear about this or read this and feel HOPE. You are not alone! Or through my openness about depression it will allow others to not suffer alone by giving them courage to seek help or confide in someone. Maybe this can open that conversation for them. My art/sculptures possibly would not have been created if it weren't for my need to externalize what I go through inside. I hope you find your own voice and can endure any obstacle that comes your way.”
“Reach! is made from stainless steel and stands 15.5 feet tall. Curving from its base then transitioning to a straight right-angled form at the top. Organic, yet human-made. Designed intentionally minimal in its form, allowing the viewer to wonder “what is it?” hopefully exploring their own creative mind for the answer. Is it a growing plant? Is it a winding flowing river? I leave the viewer to decide what they see.”
