Tucson artist Ralph Prata will be exhibiting his unique sculptural concrete carvings and recycled assemblage pieces at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Little Gallery, in Tucson, from December 31 until January 12. An opening reception will be held December 31 from noon to 3pm.

For over 40 years, Prata has been creating and exhibiting his one-of-a-kind freestanding and wall hangings throughout the country and in Asia. His search for a versatile and permanent material to sculpt with led Prata to concrete. Formulating his own special mixture of sand, aggregates and cement, he creates his own special concrete blocks to carve. These blocks are directly hand-carved using traditional sculpting tools.

In recent years, Prata has started to incorporate recycled, reclaimed and found materials along with his concrete carvings. Each of his works is created in the moment, through a spontaneous and improvisational process. Many of the pieces are inspired by the music he listens to while creating.

“In the stillness of creating, I try to bring something into existence that will enhance the lives of all who encounter my work, including myself,” says Prata.