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Why?

In an era where there is a growing belief that machines can—and indeed should—dominate all aspects of creative endeavours, it is crucial to maintain a firm stance in favour of traditional craftsmanship. We must actively advocate for the numerous benefits that human artistry affords, not only in terms of the final product but also regarding the psychological and physical well-being of both the creator and the observer.

Engaging in handcraft not only fosters creativity and individuality, but it also serves as a form of mindfulness, offering respite from the fast-paced digital world. The tactile experience of working with one’s hands can yield therapeutic benefits, reducing stress and promoting a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, the connection that viewers feel when encountering handmade creations can evoke deeper emotional responses, reinforcing the value of human input in every piece of art or craft. 

Thus, as we navigate through this rapidly changing landscape, it is imperative that we highlight the irreplaceable role of human creativity in appreciating and enhancing life. Emphasising the importance of human touch in the creative process is essential not just for the preservation of traditional skills, but also for our collective mental health and well-being.

My training and experience.

As an architectural and classical sculptor/carver, I have worked extensively in a wide range of sculptural styles over my five-decade career, striving to collaborate closely with the confines of their stylistic, cultural, and historic ideologies.

Having experience in such a broad array of styles to draw upon, my teaching, design and artistic commissions have benefited from this experience, allowing me to blend styles and techniques much like a painter mixes colours on their palette.

I was trained by a company in the City of London and received formal training in the four architectural and sculptural styles prevalent in the area.

The North Sea Style

The North Sea style of sculpture, also known as the North Sea art style or North Sea Gothic, refers to a distinctive artistic movement that emerged in the regions around the North Sea during the late medieval period, particularly from the 12th to the 16th centuries. This style reflects the cultural exchanges and influences among the countries bordering the North Sea, such as England, the Netherlands, Germany, and Scandinavia.

The Anglo-Dutch-Danish Style

The Anglo-Dutch-Danish style of sculpture refers to a specific artistic movement that developed in the late 17th to early 18th century, primarily in Northern Europe, particularly in England, the Netherlands, and Denmark. This style is characterised by its unique blend of influences from classical antiquity, the Renaissance, and Baroque aesthetics.

Post-War London Modernism and Abstraction

The post-war period embraced modernist principles, moving away from traditional representational forms to abstract and non-representational sculpture. Artists experimented with shapes, materials, and forms, employing abstraction to convey complex ideas and emotions.

Late Victorian British Empire Style

Late Victorian London saw a distinctive evolution in architectural sculpture, particularly as the city underwent significant changes during the height of the British Empire. The architecture of this period often reflected the grandeur and aspirations of the empire, combining classical influences with innovative design.

Although not formally trained in the following styles, I often worked in several that were popular in the City of London.

The City of London Baroque 

The City of London during the Baroque period (approximately 1600-1750) experienced a time of significant architectural and cultural transformation, particularly in the aftermath of the Great Fire of London in 1666. The Baroque style, characterised by grandeur, drama, and movement, influenced many structures built during this era.

London Art Deco

London Art Deco is a distinctive architectural style that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, characterised by its bold geometric shapes, rich colours, and intricate decorative elements. This style was part of the broader Art Deco movement seen internationally, but it possesses unique features that reflect London's cultural and historical context.

Arts and Crafts Style 

This style emphasised handmade craftsmanship and traditional building techniques, often resulting in intricate detailing and a warm aesthetic.

Edwardian Beaux-Arts

This French style influenced many public buildings and civic architecture during this time, leading to grand façades and classical proportions.

Edwardian Baroque 

A fusion of Baroque and Classical styles, it is characterised by elaborate ornamentation and symmetry, evident in notable buildings like Selfridges department store.

Due to the multicultural community I was raised in, I also had the opportunity to learn from craftspeople from all over the world and, in the course of my career, became proficient in several of their styles:

The Irish Celto-Scandinavian Style

The Celto-Scandinavian style of sculpture refers to artistic expressions emerging from the cultural interplay between Celtic and Scandinavian traditions, particularly during the early medieval period. This style is characterised by its distinct forms and symbolic imagery, influenced by the beliefs, practices, and artistic conventions of both Celtic and Norse cultures.

The Maltese Baroque Style

The Maltese Baroque style of sculpture, predominant from the late 16th century to the 18th century, developed during the period of the Knights of St. John, who profoundly influenced Malta’s culture, art, and architecture. This style reflects the broader European Baroque movement, known for its dramatic expression, grandeur, and emotional intensity.

Indian Jali

The Indian jali style of sculpture refers to a distinctive type of ornamental screen, often made from stone or wood, characterised by intricate patterns and geometric designs. The term "jali" translates to "lattice" in English and is derived from the Arabic term for "net." This style has its roots in Islamic architecture but has been adapted into various forms of Indian architectural contexts, particularly during the Mughal era.

As was customary during my training, I travelled extensively as a journeyman and subsequently worked in 47 countries, seeking out masters to assist me in introducing more styles to my repertoire, including:

French Gothic Style

The French Gothic sculptural style, often referred to as "Gothic sculpture" or simply "French Gothic sculpture," emerged in France during the 12th to the 16th centuries and is characterised by several key features.

The Franco-Flemish Style

The Franco-Flemish style played a significant role in the evolution of European sculpture, influencing later styles and movements throughout the Renaissance and beyond. Its legacy is evident in the emphasis on realism and emotional expression that continued to resonate in art history.

The French Empire Style

The French Empire style of sculpture emerged during the early 19th century, particularly under the influence of Napoleon Bonaparte's reign (1804-1814). This style was characterised by a revival of classical forms and traditions, inspired by both ancient Greece and Rome, combined with a distinctly French aesthetic. Here are some key elements and characteristics of French Empire sculpture:

The Roman Renaissance Style

The Roman Renaissance, which occurred during the late 15th and 16th centuries, produced a unique style of sculpture that combined classical Roman elements with the innovations of the Renaissance.

The Venetian Gothic Style

The Venetian Gothic sculptural style emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries in Venice, Italy, and is characterised by elements that reflect the city’s unique blend of Byzantine, Islamic, and Gothic influences. This style is closely associated with the architecture of the time, particularly in the design of churches, palaces, and public buildings.

Come and join me to learn more.

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