Poppy Sprigling

Orrin Whalen’s wall sculptures embody movement, sensuality, and the tactile intimacy of material. Expanding his practice of casting paint from silicone molds, Whalen pushes texture further—capturing the definition of woven fabric, shifting away from the smooth, taffy-like surfaces of previous works. Through resin casts and acrylic skins—the literal dried surface of paint—his sculptures achieve an unexpected duality: solid yet fluid, structured yet organic. At the heart of this series is an exploration of woven textures, where interlaced strands evoke strength, connection, and community. In a weave, each thread plays a vital role; if one is missing, the whole is compromised. Whalen’s works invite the viewer to consider the delicate balance between individual elements and collective form, translating the language of textiles into sculptural presence.