Using a chainsaw, Derbes first cuts blocks of wood from a variety of tree species, including elm, poplar and maple.
Continuing to carve each block into a unique and dynamic shape, he meticulously chisels, paints, sands and burnishes each piece in order to achieve a variety of complex geometric visual systems, planes, patterns and patinas. With a palette that ranges from vibrantly rich jewel tones to subdued neutrals, Derbes uses pattern, shape, and shifts of scale to playfully and unexpectedly alter perspective and space.