"I Sculpt Emotion!"

Award Winning Sculptor, Artist, Humanitarian and Teacher

D & L Sculpture Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to the pursuit of Human Harmony and Healing through the use of inspirational sculpture design and installations.

David would be delighted to chat with you about his past, current and future work.

“Sculpture means movement to me, and within that movement – be it a leaf hanging on against the wind or a person’s hand stretched out in supplication – movement gives a visual path for hearts to follow.”

- David F. Shankland

Master Sculptor
Biography
"I Sculpt Emotion!"

Over fifty years ago, at the young age of fifteen, David found his inner sculpting spirit through that of a shark swimming in the ocean waters. The shark was over five feet long with shiny scales, identifying fins, and ferocious saw-toothed teeth. This piece launched him into a career as a sculptor, artist, teacher, and humanitarian activist.
From high school art classes to a Fine Arts degree from Ohio Wesleyan’s infamous art department, to a 46-year long relationship with his teacher, mentor, and friend, Ebb Haycock, David has evolved personally and professionally into an artist.

CURRENT Project

The Journey

An eight (8) figure series depicting a person making and executing a difficult and dangerous decision to walk away from a violent or unsafe life situation.

Any person – male or female, young or old – of any race or ethnic background – who has made a difficult decision to flee from a hardship: an immigrant, a refugee, someone who has left behind cycles of addiction and violence, an abused and overworked front line worker, an adult child floundering/fleeing from a dysfunctional family, or from any number of realities – will immediately empathize with each of the emotional states represented by these figures.

Leaving- prototype

Leaving

This is the first of eight full size figures depicting “The Journey”. This flee from danger – be it war, violence, addiction or abuse reflects – FEAR and COURAGE.

Ridgeline - prototype

Ridgeline

“The Journey” unfolds with an overwhelming sense of UNCERTAINTY, yet RELIEF.

Food- prototype

Food

Through a simple moment of nourishment, a sense of HOPE becomes clear.

River Crossing- prototype

River Crossing

“The Journey” includes times of difficulty and challenge. However, FEAR and UNCERTAINTY begin to turn into RESILIENCE.

Sleep- prototype

Sleep

Much needed rest allows for new dreams and the awakening assurance of
NEW POSSIBILITIES.

Why?

Why?

Experiencing the universal question,
WHY ME?

Exhaustion- prototype

Exhaustion

With erratic sleep, unsure new steps, little sustenance and an uncertain future, complete mental, emotional and physical EXHAUSTION prevails.

Arrival- prototype

Arrival

With a grand sense of new-found safety, GRATITUDE and VICTORY reign. The dawn of a NEW FUTURE begins.

"David F. Shankland, Award Winning Sculptor and Humanitarian has shared with the world for many decades, his artistry, workmanship as a solo performer and as a teacher to all."
- Lynne Garvey-Hodge, Sister artist, humanitarian activist, high school alum and honored friend
"In David's work, it would be impossible to tell which is new if it weren't for the large cracks in the original! He has built custom exhibit cases and pedestals, custom cabinets and shelving for storage area."
- Barb W, Collections Manager, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
"These are just a few examples of the many projects David has been involved with. When I have a project involving wood, David is the first person I call! His work is always of the highest quality!"
- Barb W, Collections Manager, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
"His work of many years feels even more urgent as we enter a post-pandemic era, defined by emotional and societal challenges requiring compassion and a steady path forward."
- Heather M., Executive Director Summit Artspace
Akron, Ohio
ARTWORK

Photo Gallery

An award winning, seasoned, versatile sculptor and artist.
Historic antique renovator, skilled in antique restoration and reproduction.

Check out our videos

Wood Sculpture and Totem Poles

Get a closer look at our process and see unique shots of some of our pieces in a photo slideshow.

Teaching in Hati

Students learning to carve turtles, birds and frogs out of high density foam blocks with hand held rasps, wonderful first time sculptors. year 2014.

Watch an Interview with David

Take a look at David F. Shankland and watch as he discusses his process and how he creates.