Dustin Sims
Nature Re:Wired
UNF Student Artist-in-Residence
January 17-May 4, 2025
Dustin Sims, "P.O.E.," 2024.
MOCA’s Fall 2024 University of North Florida Student Artist-in-Residence exhibition features the work of recent graduate, retired military veteran, and sculptor Dustin Sims. In Nature Re:Wired, Sims reimagines discarded technology, transforming it into captivating animal sculptures that celebrate the brilliance of nature’s design.
OPENING CELEBRATION | WED, FEB 5 6-9 P.M.
Stop by MOCA Jacksonville during First Wednesday DTJax Art Walk to celebrate the opening of Nature Re:Wired with UNF Student Artist-in-Residence Dustin Sims. Meet the artist and learn more about his work and process, from gathering discarded objects that he pieces together to create animals to 3D printing the perfect crane skull.
With 20 years of service in the Air Force, Sims found his true calling after hanging up his uniform. Throughout his military career, Dustin specialized in constructing metal communication towers and working with communication equipment, all while seizing every opportunity to immerse himself in different cultures and indulge his passion for art.
Upon retiring from the military, he embarked on a new chapter of his life dedicated to pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming an artist. A recent graduate of the University of North Florida (UNF), Dustin has focused on refining his skills in fabrication, MIG, and TIG welding techniques, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors in metal artistry.
Looking ahead, Dustin has a clear vision for his artistic journey. He plans to establish his own LLC and create a studio in Jacksonville, where he can fully explore his creativity and bring his artistic visions to life. He claims, “This studio will be more than just a workspace; it will be a sanctuary where I can channel my creativity freely and bring my artistic visions to life.”
Through his transition from military service to the world of art, Dustin has discovered the profound impact of self-expression. Each weld, each stroke of the brush, is an opportunity for him to share his story and connect with others on a deeper level through his art.
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UNF STUDENT ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE
AN UNPARALLELED EXPERIENCE FOR UNF ART STUDENTS
The University of North Florida Student Artist-in-Residence (AIR) is a highly competitive opportunity that awards access to a MOCA Jacksonville studio and exhibition space to complete a new body of work and hone skills over the course of a final semester.