I propose labelling this style as 'Organic Cubism,' a term I believe Umberto Boccioni might endorse. There exists a profound connection between the process of forming shapes through intersecting lines in both drawing and sculpture.
In essence, the synergy between drawing and sculpture resembles an ongoing anatomy lesson, wherein intricate line structures are distilled into defining components that manifest shape the form.
When I draw, it's a rapid and unconscious process; somehow, I consistently find myself landing close to or on a starting or stopping point. The act is fluid yet not premeditated—I am simultaneously in control and out of control. It's an odd sensation! A part of me is actively drawing, while another part observes what has just been drawn in a symbiotic manner.
For over 40 years, I grappled with frustration over my drawing style, yet persisted in practice, gradually refining it to an unexpected perfection.
It wasn't until 2020 that clarity dawned, thanks to the influence of Umberto Boccioni (1887-1916) and his Futurist painting and drawings. Upon studying his, sole surviving sculpture, 'Unique Forms of Continuity in Space,' I found profound parallels between his approach and my own work, notably my 1984 piece, 'Spirit Rising.'
Boccioni's sculpture served as a monumental insight, inspiring me to translate two-dimensional images into sculptural forms. Much of this newfound ability stemmed from the accessibility of affordable materials, enabling the creation of large-scale works.
Similarly, sculpting follows a comparable process. I become a spectator, observing as the sculpture materializes, its structure and surface forms taking shape before my eyes.
I typically don't design any of these 'Organic Cubist' works. Instead, I prefer to embark on a journey of discovery, allowing the artwork to lead me rather than predetermining its final appearance. It's a continuous process of exploration, where I too am an observer on an unknown path. I trust that the outcome will reveal itself; the fear of failure never crosses my mind. Instead, determining the colouring of each piece presents a far more daunting task.
Throughout this process, my primary focus remains on the strength and finish of the artwork. As these peculiar cocoons of creation take form, the shapes and connections continue to evolve, resembling a passionate performance. It's only upon completion that I truly grasp what the artwork has become.
These cement works consist of lightweight concrete shells, each crafted with cement and sand, using polymers as a binding and waterproofing agent, effectively fusing them together. I employ various basalt fibers, akin to a blanket, as the primary internal bonding element. Basalt fiber ranks as the third strongest fiber, following carbon fiber and kevlar.
I accept commissions for the concrete work. We can also 3D scan the work and have it cast in Bronze or Stainless steel. The scans can also be reduced printed and cast as a smaller Bronze if you would like.
Join us at our sculpture garden to discover some of the work shown on this website and many more sculptures. Our property in located at 2 Dreyfus Street which is about a 2-minute drive from Bridgetown central.