Three decades of sculpting…
I returned to study sculpture in 1991 after a career as a theatre and tv propmaker in London and the South east. This was because of my love of carving and modelling throughout that career. The Frink school of sculpture was small and encouraged independent projects as well as life study and portraiture in clay.
Materials
Since 1996 I’ve had a studio in South Devon where I evolved my process and developed through life experience. Experimenting with various materials tending towards wet materials at the start of my career such as plaster, clay and direct cement. Since having my children I have enjoyed carving in stone and wood this was a practical decision as its a more flexible material to work with due to nothing happening to it when left for a time unlike clay which can crack or cement which hardens.
Stone and Wood
These days most of my work is based on the human form and is emotive. Stone or wood is carved in a way that entices the viewer to engage with the senses, drawing attention to some areas and simplifying others. My carvings are formed from Westcountry stone and more recently Alabaster and marble which needs extra work in the finishing process due to the nature of the stone needing to be polished. I mainly use recycled stone which contributes to the uniqueness of the sculpture .
Process
A little about process…. I like to have more than one project on the go at a time to avoid getting stuck. My objective is to keep the work fresh; often stone is out on the bench weeks before the carving commences. The work develops through working with that particular stone shape and type. I sometimes make a clay ‘sketch’ first to work out how the form will fit the stone. My focus is concerned with feeling, flow and rhythm of the piece rather than getting things anatomically right.
With the abstract pieces the stone is worked direct with no preconceived ideas. I love to work in this way and feel it has an impact on my more figurative work.
Information
My studio is in Buckfastleigh, Devon viewing is by appointment. Regular sculpture classes for adults are run here get in touch by email for more information. I exhibit nationally and work to commission and enjoy participating with South West Sculptors from time to time
