Martin Eichinger
Martin Eichinger’s bronzes are refreshingly unique. They are evidence of a visionary artist who has something positive and eternal to say with his talent. He is much more than a skilled craftsman at the sculptor’s turntable.
A profound comprehension of human anatomy has allowed Eichinger to place his sculpture studies on the edge of possibility without losing their sense of grace. At the same time he is a romantic who sometimes adds bright colors, gems, iridescence and unusual basing to his work. His series of characters from an imaginary circus each includes a poem that adds another layer of understanding of the work.
The characters he creates are alive in the mind of Martin Eichinger, if nowhere else, and it shows in the bronze he has touched. Each sculpture has a personality, a story to tell, a wink of humor, a hint of tragedy or a whole philosophy if we look a bit more closely.
Martin Eichinger (b.1949) studied design and anatomy at Ferris State University, did post graduate work in sculpture at Michigan State University, and pursued independent studies of classical sculpture in Europe. He has won numerous awards and competitions, including a Kellog Internship and NEA grants. In 1972, Eichinger opened his first studio in Lansing, Michigan. He relocated to Portland, Oregon in 1985 and settled into its historic Pearl District in 1996.
Eichinger and his bronze circus sculptures were guests of Prince Rainier of Monaco at The International Festival du Cirque in 1993. Eichinger is also known for several public monumental works. His most significant is a 16-foot cast bronze for the city of Lansing, Michigan. Other notable commissioned works include the Columbus Quincentennial high relief plaque for “Spain ’92”, a plaque and bust of President Ronald Reagan, and a sculpture to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Tenth Mountain Division of the US Army.