The Byzantium SEries
For this series of public sculptures, I delved into the rich history of Bedminster, Bristol. A vibrant district of the city, which in the 19th century was a separate town dating back to roman times, predating Bristol itself. Looking into its architectural history I discovered the Bristol Byzantine architectural movement, and was particularly captivated by magnificent windows and doorframes. I used this as a point of reference to tie all of the individual sculptures together to form them into a series. Each of the sculptures were framed within an abstract “archway” that was inspired by those common within Bristol byzantine architecture.
Commisioned by the Bedminster Town Team, and funded by Bristol city council and the West of England Combined Authority’s Love our High Streets project.
Yellow CAb co
Inspired by the “New York Cabbie” style of the business, I decided to use the Statue of Liberty torch for the design, something that would match the shops aesthetic and branding. This also worked perfectly with the material, as all the wrinkles of the fingers, and wisps of the flame could be mirrored by the gnarls and cracks of the oak. I was blessed to find a single piece of stag oak that was perfect for the windswept torch flame. The positioning on the chimney breast also framed this piece really nicely.
Reeves Jewellers
For the Jewellers I attempted the intricate Cuban Link. The tricky element of this was replicating this complex shape with an organic material that does not manipulate easily, whilst also considering the structural strength of the “chain”. By splitting sections of branches I was able to lap them, effectively platting the wood to create a strong, and aesthetically accurate bond.
Bristol chiropody clinic
Tom and Sal had a beautiful clay foot mold which I used as a basis for the sculpture; I thought it looked like a clay vase, so i turned it into one, with a flower growing from the foot itself. This piece is also the start point of the trail from the top of East Street.
Focussing on heritage businesses within Bedminster, I worked collaboratively with local traders to produce artworks that reflect the districts rich history, incorporating their individual identity. Each piece uses the same colour palette and material, so they are cohesive as a series, and easy to spot as part of a trail.
Sunshine cafe
Sunshine in the palm of your hand. The concept for this piece was simple, and after completing the sculptural hands and feet of the previous sculptures I was enjoying the beauty and mysteriousness of having the wooden arms reaching out from inside the archway, displaying the sculpture.
Vince and sons
A true heritage icon of the district. For this father and son business, I created a a piece portraying hair flowing from the archway, with large abstracted scissors cutting it.
East st fruit market
For yet another local legend of the area; the East Street fruit market, a twisted orange peel on a branch, growing out of the stag oak archway.