"A Young African Kudu" (2001) | Dan Ostermiller

DAN OSTERMILLER
United States, b. 1956

A Young African Kudu Cow (2001)

Patinated bronze on marble base | signed to the reverse "(c) Dan Ostermiller 97 2/12" | impressed "D" within "O" and cold-stamped 2001

ref. 412WKR10B  29" H x 11 1/8" D x 27 1/4" W
This very large example of Dan Ostermiller's Young African Kudu Cow is part of a very small edition of only 12 casts, this being the second cast of the series. Modeled in 2001, the sculpture is depicted in Dan's studio when Spanierman Galleries managed his 2001 exhibit (April 26th through May 19th, 2001) and issued a catalog for the event. The powerful animal is depicted looking alert into the infinite distance, striding down a slope with its weight set slightly backward over the rear hips. He is noted in the catalog as having been motivated to model her on a "recent trip to the Okavango region of Botswana."

Ostermiller's ability to capture the essence of an animal, a personality and individual dignity without even a hint of anthropomorhic sentiments is notable - his rich surfaces are always vibrant and the textures play brilliantly against the light. The present example is a somewhat matte medium-brown nuanced patination and the sculpture is raised on a trapezoidal marble base. An exquisite cast. Exhibited: Dan Ostermiller, April 26-May 19, 2001, Spanierman Gallery, LLC, p. 2-3; the checklist of works for sale note this was cast in an edition of 8 when it is actually an edition of 12 (offered for $ 10,900 USD)

Awards: 2001 Audubon Artists Inc., “Kudu Cow”, Richard L. Marini Memorial Award for Realistic Work Originally Modeled in Clay
Condition:
A matte overall patina with nuance and variation. Minor rubbing wear. No noted flaws. Biography
Dan Ostermiller (b. 1956) is a contemporary American sculptor celebrated for his mastery of representational bronze sculptures, particularly of animals. Born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Ostermiller was exposed early to the nuances of anatomy and form through his father, a professional taxidermist. This foundational influence informed his ability to capture lifelike textures and postures in his sculptural work.

Ostermiller began his professional career in sculpture in the late 1970s. His reputation grew as he combined technical precision with an evocative sense of motion and personality in his depictions of wildlife and domestic animals. His sculptures often feature large-scale proportions, emphasizing the monumental and timeless qualities of his subjects.

One of Ostermiller's signature achievements is his work “Marmalade” (1985), a whimsical sculpture of a reclining cat, which has become a beloved public installation at the Denver Art Museum in Colorado. His monumental works are showcased in various prominent locations, including the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and the Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland, Colorado.

Ostermiller has exhibited extensively throughout the United States and internationally. His pieces are included in the permanent collections of institutions such as the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art and the Gilcrease Museum. His sculptures have also been featured in high-profile exhibitions, including shows at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

In addition to his artistic practice, Ostermiller has been a significant figure in the arts community. He served as president of the National Sculpture Society from 2003 to 2006, advocating for the importance of representational sculpture in contemporary art.

Ostermiller continues to reside and work in Loveland, Colorado, where he maintains an active studio practice. His influence extends through mentorship and his enduring commitment to the craft of sculpture, which balances meticulous detail with universal appeal.