Dean DeCocker’s work is part of a continuing series, “Blue Jackets Return.” From the first winged-shaped structures to the current work, he has been exploring my interest in formal elements by transforming flat, two-dimensional surfaces into three-dimensional objects. He derives much of his inspiration from everyday objects such as mailboxes, aircraft structures, wings and propellers, heavy machinery and architectural works. These objects become conceptual elements, which he transforms first into drawings. Then, via techniques of aircraft construction, he has fabricated objects of inner structures and outer coverings that created volumetric enclosures. Recently, his interest in racecar fabrication and finishing and collecting vintage BMX bicycles from the 1970’s has led to subtle changes in structure and color. 2009 has lead him to a return to painting. These paintings reflect his preoccupation with stripes.

The titles of his works have no real meaning, but due to his interest in the construction techniques of World War II aircraft, he takes his titles from the World War II battles in the South Pacific.