I am a storyteller. I portray animals in situations that mimic our own lives. The animals are a stand in for us. I most often explore ideas about movement. I see movement as the foundation for the Journey of Life. I use analogies and metaphors to help viewers identify with the various animal characters and see themselves, perhaps saying, I've been there before or I wish I could do that. I also choose non-animal images to help compose my stories. Wheels, rocks, sticks, and towers are often used because they are familiar, and known throughout the world, and do not get stuck in a specific culture or time period. These universal images, combined with animal images, keep the work timeless and relevant to future generations. Art in public spaces must interact with such a diverse group of people, and therefore demands that the artist create the most accessible piece possible. My sculptures are positive and hopeful and enjoyed by people of all ages.
— Brad Rude
You could make a case that Rude's work is somewhere between western realism, abstract openness, and the notebook of an anthropologist in The Twilight Zone. His bronze sculptures often begin with a vague notion and random objects. He mixes and matches and watches where the story leads him.
I've seen him pull magic patinas out of his pocket and lay them on my sculpture. His poetry is in his eyes and the 'power' is in his hands. Brad inspires me!