New Figurative Bronze Sculptures GalleryPeople often ask where inspiration for my new figurative bronze sculptures comes from. Inspiration can strike from the blue, but having a regular time to work and a familiar environment is important.
Sometimes a new idea comes from a newspaper picture or a yoga book, from seeing someone at the swimming pool or from comments made about my work. Other times there may have been something lurking at the back of my mind waiting to emerge as a new figurative bronze sculpture. I also enjoy making use of the 'happy accidents' that happen when I work with a 'plastic' medium – clay – such as when a piece of clay detaches itself or has to be rapidly mended. In the process, the work might develop quite differently and become more fresh and exciting - taking me by surprise as a new figurative bronze sculpture emerges.
New Work 2007
H: 25, W: 15 cm This idea evolved from the Nutcracker Inspiration sculpture I made in the spring of 2006 (see below). I still love the theme of the body going round in a sideways circle. This original bronze sculpture has evolved in several ways, most notably in the hair and the proportions.
Also new in 2007: New Work 2006
L: 22, H: 23, W: 18 cm Last year I was given a ticket to The Nutcracker ballet here in Norwich. Classical ballet isn't normally my thing, but after a great deal of prancing tutus the Arabian Dance began and I was captivated. This dancer was tall and sinuous and she wore garments inspired by traditional Arab dress. At the finish of her dance she positioned herself into this unlikely and beautiful pose with her head resting peacefully on her upturned foot. For me this made a perfect shape for a new figurative bronze sculpture, with the body forming a continuous series of forms and relationships and with a space in the centre described by those forms. The following evening I went back to the theatre to sketch from her. When it came to the end of her dance she was so quick, it was hard to work out where each limb went. I am not at all sure which way her elbows pointed, nor her knees, but that is now irrelevant. This is my interpretation and she was my inspiration.
Hug/9" high/£1850
Snubble/13"long/£3300
L: 13, H: 28, W: 18 cm Little did I know at the start how much I would enjoy this new series of mother and child sculptures, in which I celebrate the sweetest aspects of family life, especially the fun and love of every day. Blissey shows a kneeling hug. I like the triangular shape which lends a feeling of quiet strength.
L: 10, H: 25, W: 11 cm This is the latest in the series of mother and child sculptures. When I had nearly finished I still had not added any arms. I held my breath and decided to leave them off because they would be superfluous and hide the gentle relationship between the two figures. There has been a very warm reaction to this sculpture. Click here to go to top of New Figurative Bronze Sculptures. Visit my other Gallery pages
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