Leri creates sculpture for indoor, outdoor, private and public spaces from various materials such as steel, copper and wood. Through the free association of color, texture, scale and form his work defines itself in an intuitive manner. Curved shapes, clean minimalist lines, and abstract designs are common themes. His sculpture reflects the intense relationship between himself and the material, and is a statement of his identity. He continues to learn about himself and his material as the relationship progresses.

"I begin to develop my concept with the traditional process of a sketch, then through trial and error the form is worked out with maquettes. The maquettes stand on their own as works of art. The full-scale work is further adjusted and tweaked until I am satisfied. I aspire to create work that conveys my desire for balance and harmony utilizing minimal elements."

The expressive properties of steel and the techniques required to create metal sculpture intrigue Leri.

"I focus on line, shape and the relationship between the two. Like Calder and Lassaw I believe that the work has an inner life, space within space and spaces between the shapes."

Dennis Leri