Somers Randolph
Step into the world of master stone carver and compulsive creative, Somers Randolph, as we explore the appeal of perfect geometry both as an intellectual exercise and an emotional experience.
Lili visits the studio of sculptor Somers Randolph on a busy Monday afternoon, where the rhythmic sound of stone filing sets the stage for a conversation about a lifetime of craftsmanship. Known for his sinuous, serpentine forms carved from single blocks of stone, Somers reflects on the evolution of his practice and the daily realities of working with such a demanding medium—including the occasional mini disaster when a delicate piece takes a nosedive. The discussion highlights his transition from large-scale monumental works to the intimate, small-scale sculptures that currently fill his workspace, demonstrating a continuous commitment to discovering new forms within the rock.
The dialogue shifts from the technical to the personal as Somers contemplates the next chapter of his life and the possibility of leaving Santa Fe. At 70 years old, he shares his curiosity about new landscapes, from the redwoods of Northern California to the Oregon coast, and the complicated social dynamics of abandoning the reality of one’s friends to seek a new environment. This episode offers a candid look at the restlessness and radical intention of an artist who remains as dedicated to his personal evolution as he is to the stones he carves.
