Apollo Timp
he/him
Iowa City, IA, USA
Apollo Timp is a Midwestern metalsmith pursuing a Fine Arts degree at the University of Iowa. He is interested in rural queerness, creepy crawlies, and abstract constructions.
“My work primarily focuses on fantasy and abstract constructions inspired by the world around me. Many of my pieces call upon my paradoxically rural and art historical backgrounds, weaving together to create tongue-in-cheek artworks. My current interests lie primarily in silversmithing, enameling. and vacuum casting. Inspired by my recent delve into deadpan-style photography, I have also developed an increased interest in surface texture and use of color that translated over into my metal art. I create both commercial and contemporary work, and overlap said fields whenever possible.”
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“It is absolutely something I consider. To me, working in metal is a form of gender validation. As a transgender man, metalsmithing allows me to approach a traditionally masculine field from an outsiders perspective, and claim this art for myself. Making works that represent my life and personality creates a sense of gender euphoria."
Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“Some viewers may perceive my art as queer, others may not. I believe this says more about the viewer than about the artist."
"Gulp!", Bullsnake vertebrae (ethically sourced), sterling silver, liver of sulphur, 6.5" diameter, 2024Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“My partner gifted me these bullsnake vertebrae shortly after our relationship began. Over the course of an academic year, I made and re-made this snake, in many ways recreating the ouroboros it represents. It is a symbol of queer love and dedication."