Aaron Laux, Madison artist, is a forager at heart, much like the ancient humans. 

As an artist who makes three-dimensional works that depict natural forms with rock, wood, and other materials, Laux explores the symbiosis of all things. His works will be up at Carnelian Art Gallery until the end of October as part of its fall exhibition, "Tending the Balance," whose theme is all about ongoing care and finding equilbirium in all aspects of life. 

The other artists in the show are both Madison locals. Amanda Langer creates scultpures with steel and yarn, and Eric Peterson Japanese-inspired wooden pieces that hang on the wall. 

A closing reception for Tending the Balance is set for 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24. Admission is free, and light refreshments will be served. 

Laux has been an artist ever since he was young. Since then, he's lived off grid, traveling the world, winning awards, showing his distinctive pieces of art and, more recently, a voice bringing awareness to the consequences of climate change. 

Of his process, Laux said during a visit to his Madison studio, that he typically starts out by sketching his vision on a large sheet of paper. Then, he sources his materials either by buying them at art supply stores or by finding them in the woods, the latter being his preference. After that, in his Madison studio that resembles a garden oasis, he works his magic using various tools both modern and ancient. For some of Laux's works, he uses a piece of rock that he carves himself into something sharp. 

"I'm very tickled," Laux said of being part of Tending the Balance and of showing at Carnelian Art Gallery. "It's a great space and I'm happy to be showing wih Amanda and Eric."