GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017
up of a blend of alloys that form a stable rust-like appearance.
It has been used for bridges and larger structures but is also a
favorite of architects and sculptors for its naturally oxidizing
finish. His favorite sculptor, abstract expressionist Clement
Meadmore, was among the first artists to recognize the sculptural
potential of COR-TEN steel. His influence can be seen in
Starks sculptures.
Dozens of his works in various sizes and shapes adorn
an outdoor sculpture garden and indoor gallery on his rural
one-acre lot off Hecker Pass Highway that he also calls home.
Industrialist, rusted beams twist and turn in abstract geometric
forms, seemingly carved from a single, solid metallic mass,
boldly flex against the surrounding space.
A typical sculpture takes one to two months to complete and
he doesn’t always know what’s next, saying sometimes he needs
to get away from a work in progress to contemplate his next
steps so he doesn’t get sloppy. It is the metal mastery of Starks
in shaping, forming, welding and finishing that creates the
seamless appearance but it is his creative side that envisions
the final product.
He’s always looking for new ideas. “Most of my work today
originates from imagined shapes I have created in my mind and
in my sketchbook.”
Born in Sacramento, his parents, both school teachers,
moved the family to Watsonville before he was a year old. After
graduating from Watsonville High School, he attended Cabrillo
College in Santa Cruz before transferring to San José State
University where majored in Industrial Studies and minored in
Art. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in 1968, Starks enlisted
in the Navy. Before receiving a medical discharge one year later,
he obtained his teaching credential.
“I told them when I went in that I had flat feet and a bad
back. They heard that a lot back then, but after a thorough
medical exam they determined I was telling the truth.”
In 1970, following a brief stin