CORY HAMILTON: Sculptor of the Southwest and Beyond
By Lisa Lynn Morgan
Cory Hamilton is an artist whose work transcends the boundaries of traditional mediums, blending the rugged beauty of the Southwest with his own imaginative vision. Born in Palm Springs and raised in the desert town of Yucca Valley, Cory’s deep connection to his environment has shaped his artistic journey, inspiring a unique body of work that includes sculptures, paintings, and custom furniture. His art celebrates the natural world and the cultural heritage of the American West, while also embracing elements of fantasy and modern design.
A Desert Roots Beginning
Growing up in Yucca Valley, Cory was constantly surrounded by the striking beauty of the Mojave Desert. The local flora and fauna, vast open spaces, and breathtaking sunsets became a source of inspiration for his art. He fondly recalls watching wildlife like roadrunners and desert tortoises during hikes and dirt bike rides—experiences that would later manifest in his sculptures of these very creatures. But Cory’s early love of art wasn’t confined to nature. His father, an artist and woodworker, played a major role in shaping his passion for creating. Watching his dad craft custom furniture, hand carved doors, and intricate wood sculptures, Cory absorbed these techniques and applied them to his own work.
“My dad inspired me to dive into woodworking and showed me the joy of creating something with your hands,” Cory reflects. “It was natural for me to follow that path.”
At Yucca Valley High School, Cory had the unique opportunity to study art under his uncle, Bruce Hamilton, known as “Hamy” to his students. Both his father and uncle gave Cory the confidence to pursue art seriously. Their encouragement set him on a path toward becoming a professional artist, where he would blend traditional techniques with contemporary themes.
‘Chief Hungry Wolf’ wall sculpture. The warrior wearing a wolf headdress is carved in bass wood finished with wood burning / acrylic paints. With Cory getting his art critiqued from his dog Charlie :)
‘Chemingkim’ the meaning of this word is ‘Our relatives’ is a Bronze statue monument for the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians in Coachella. Each figure made in the likeness of tribal council family members who had a hand in establishing Augustine Casino and have passed.
Finished life size sculpture bust of Harriet Allen. Carved in basswood, finished with wood burning /acrylic paints. Commissioned by Pappy and Harriet’s.
Blending Art, Design, and Carpentry
After high school, Cory spent time honing his skills at Copper Mountain College, where he studied art under local artist Steve Rieman. But Cory’s desire for more hands-on experience led him to join his father’s construction company, Hamilton Builders, where he worked for 15 years. There, he gained practical experience in carpentry, concrete, framing, and custom finishes—skills that would prove invaluable when he later transitioned into creating large-scale sculptures and intricate furniture designs. The blend of artistry and craftsmanship became the hallmark of his work. Whether he’s working on a custom piece of furniture or sculpting a life-sized bronze figure, Cory’s background in construction informs every project he takes on. His art is not only visually compelling but also deeply grounded in the knowledge of how materials work together, giving his sculptures and furniture both aesthetic beauty and structural integrity.
Southwest and Native American Inspirations Cory’s art frequently explores themes of the Southwest and Native American culture, subjects that have been close to his heart since childhood. His sculptures often depict desert animals like the bobcat and coyote or feature Native American warriors in moments of deep emotion and contemplation. The power and spirit of these figures, combined with the intricate realism of his style, resonate deeply with viewers.
“I’ve always been fascinated by Native American history and the way it ties into the landscape of the Southwest,” Cory explains. “It feels like a natural connection for me to express that in my art.”
One of his most significant projects to date has been a series of life-sized Native American statues commissioned by the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians. Installed at the Augustine Casino in Coachella in 2023, the project included four bronze statues, along with a majestic bald eagle with outstretched wings. This project, Cory’s largest bronze commission to date, took nearly a year to complete and stands as a testament to his ability to bring both cultural significance and artistic mastery to his work.
A-List Collaborations and Celebrity Creations While Cory’s art is firmly rooted in the traditions of the Southwest, his reach has extended far beyond the desert. Since 2018, he’s created custom sculptures for a range of A-list celebrities, athletes, and musicians. His first major commission came from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and since then, his list of clients has only grown. Notable commissions include sculptures for actor Jason Momoa, musician Post Malone, and Korn’s frontman Jonathan Davis. One of his most unique pieces is a custom Frankenstein head for Post Malone, which incorporates the singer’s iconic face tattoos and is designed to be worn like a mask.
Post Malone and I chatting about his sculpture in between takes during his and Morgan Wallen’s music video shoot for ‘I had some help’ at the Joshua Tree Saloon.
Each celebrity commission offers Cory a new challenge and a chance to connect with individuals who inspire him creatively. “Meeting these people and sharing my art with them has been surreal,” Cory says. “It’s amazing to see how they connect with the pieces I create.”
These high-profile collaborations have also led to ongoing partnerships, including multiple commissions from Monster Energy for their pro motocross athletes, further cementing Cory’s reputation as an artist capable of bringing a diverse range of ideas to life.
Contributions to Local Iconic Venues
Despite his success with celebrities, Cory has never forgotten his roots. His work is displayed at some of the desert’s most iconic venues, including Pappy and Harriet’s in Pioneertown, where he created a lifesized wood bust of Harriet, the beloved co-founder of the venue. For Cory, this commission was especially meaningful, as he had spent years visiting the establishment and even performing there with his high school band.
“To be the one to sculpt Harriet Allen was such an honor,” Cory shares. “It felt like a full-circle moment for me.”
Life size Bighorn sheep bust. Wall mount sculpture created for Jason Momoa. He and I hanging and talking art at the Joshua Tree Saloon. Half living, half exposed skull. Sculpted from natural fallen local woods.
Looking Forward: Large-Scale Projects and Local Legacy
As Cory continues to grow as an artist, he is expanding his horizons with large-scale public art projects. His concept for a new “Welcome to Yucca Valley” sign is currently under review by the town, and he has other large-scale bronze sculpture proposals in the works across various cities. These public installations allow Cory to share his vision with a broader audience and leave a lasting artistic legacy in the desert community that shaped him.
“I’m always inspired by the landscape, the culture, and the history of this area,” Cory says. “But now, I get to experience it all over again with my wife and kids, and that’s what keeps me motivated.”
To see more of Cory Hamilton’s work, visit him on Instagram at @coryhamiltonartistry, Facebook at @coryhamiltondesign, or his website at coryhamiltondesign.com.
Sand dune and Dakar figure sculpture in poplar, finished with acrylic paints. Commissioned from Monster Energy for 2- time Dakar champion Ricky Brabec. The only American to win this prestigious race on a motorcycle in Saudi Arabia.
