Amid the vast landscapes of Colorado and the raw materials of the American Southwest, the work of a sculptor has emerged that is deeply rooted in a profound relationship with nature. American artist James Surls is considered one of the defining voices of contemporary sculpture. His monumental works in wood and steel can be found in renowned collections including the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art.
Today, Surls works from his studio in Carbondale, Colorado, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. For him, nature is far more than a backdrop. It is a source of inspiration, a spiritual companion, and the provider of the materials that define his artistic language.
In the NOWNESS short film Will of the Wisp, filmmaker Garrett Creamer follows Surls during an extraordinary undertaking: transporting a massive tree trunk discovered in a field and bringing it to the studio, where it will become the foundation of a new sculpture. The film offers a rare glimpse into the creative process of an artist whose work is shaped by physicality, organic forms, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Yet Will of the Wisp is about more than sculpture. It is a reflection on time, ageing, and the shifting perspective that comes with experience. With the calm confidence of someone who has spent a lifetime working alongside nature, Surls speaks about creativity, health, and his belief that, ultimately, everything finds its rightful place.
“One part artist, poet and philosopher, one part uncompromising Texan.” – Garrett Creamer
The result is an intimate and visually compelling portrait of a man who transforms raw materials into works of remarkable presence and poetry. Through Surls’ story, the film reminds us that true creativity often begins with listening—to nature, to materials, and to the passage of time itself.
About NOWNESS
NOWNESS is a global video platform dedicated to art, culture, design, fashion, and exceptional storytelling. Through a carefully curated approach, NOWNESS showcases films that highlight unique creative perspectives and explore contemporary culture through a cinematic lens. Collaborating with some of the world’s most exciting filmmakers, artists, and creatives, NOWNESS has established itself as one of the leading platforms for visual storytelling today..
