ROGER HARDY, my life as an artist

ROWLOCK

2012-02-03T09:32:00.000-08:00

Here is an old rowlock that I am going to make into either a Bulls horns and head, or possibly a goat, not sure yet. It does seem perfect. So this will be my next sculpture. I am still painting at the moment. Just working on a canvas 1m x 70cm. Aldeburgh. Will post a photo soon.

Early Evening, Aldeburgh Tide Marker

2012-01-30T09:54:00.000-08:00

A new painting. Early Evening, Aldeburgh Tide Marker. Oil on canvas. 30cm x 30cm.

Framlingham View

2012-01-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

This is a view across the road from where we live. Somewhere we walk the dogs every day. We had to have a couple of chestnut trees taken down today, as they were in bad shape. A shame, but it has opened up the view a great deal. Especially this time of year.

I have painted this in oils, and also added some chalk pastel, which is an unusual combination, but added a dimension that I liked.

INFLUENCE IN ART

2012-01-26T01:17:00.000-08:00

Artists are influenced all the time by what has gone before, and indeed what is happening today.
As an example, I took delivery of a great book yesterday. De Kooning, a retrospective. An amazing book of work from an artist I much admire. For me I am influenced by much of his earlier work. In fact the group of abstract expressionists have a big affect on me. Strange you may think, as I paint mainly representational subjects. Of course De Kooning painted the figure. Something I must tackle one of these days.
I guess the influence comes when I say that I am trying to make movement and texture in my work. It is the brush work that is so impressive with these painters. I can apply some of this thinking to my subjects. The spirit is something I must try to capture.

David Hockney has greatly been influenced by many artists, such as Van Gough. As artists it is impossible not to be inspired by what has gone before. And it is very healthy to do so. Of course Picassso was also inspired. A Spanish pirate! But still probably the greatest ever painter. The only artists I can think of without this influence from the outside world, are the true 'primitive' artists. People like Alfred Wallis. Ironic, as he was a great inspiration to people like Ben Nicholson when he 'discovered' him.

So embrace all art, and be influenced. It is a rich visual world out there. Inspiration can come from anywhere!...

ARTISTS LIFE FOR ME

2012-01-26T01:02:00.000-08:00

Just come in from lighting the stove in the studio. Must give it half an hour before I can go in and start working. Soon warms up.
I started another canvas end of yesterday. Another in a series of views from Aldeburgh boat club. A bit smaller this time. Trying to make looser marks to create movement and texture. See where it leads me...
Have a meeting today to discuss the year ahead, and things to plan and do. Will keep you posted!

David Hockney

2012-01-24T08:40:00.000-08:00

Just looked through the book of Hockneys work at the RA. It is already a hit show, going by the numbers of people going to see the exhibition.
And I am not supprised. The work is a joyous celebration of painting and nature. A good combination. It is amazing the amount of work, and at such a scale that Hockney has produced. Painting is a physical process, which really takes it out of you. Amazing energy he has.
I hope this hit show will bring to the fore painting, and observing the real world. Colour also will breath life into the art world. I have always been a colourist at heart, and it is good to see that people are seeing with fresh eyes the way colour and form can come together.
Perhaps the conceptual art of recent times will take a back seat for a while. Letting the craft of painting shine again. For some reason it has not been in fashion. Painting will however always stand the test of time. It has always been part of human nature to paint. From cave paintings on.
As for me, I am going to see the show in March, when I hope things are a bit quieter. For now, the book will have to do!

View of Aldeburgh, from the boat club

2012-01-24T08:29:00.000-08:00

Here is a new painting. Iam going to paint more pictures of wider more expansive landscapes. We are spoilt in this area for landscape. How could Constable be wrong after all! I will have to get to grips with big skies.

PUBLIC ART

2012-01-21T02:04:00.000-08:00

Public art is a great thing.
I have been approached with the opportunity to create a public sculpture. This is a very exciting prospect, and I am looking forward to generating some ideas.
I only have one reservation. Red tape. Why is there always so much to break through to get things done. Although I have not got far enough for the rejections to start, I feel some sense of dread. This is not a bad thing, as it will make me work harder to make things happen.
We seem to have a culture of lets say no, because it is the easy option. Art in public spaces is one of the most important roles that art can perform. It has the ability to bring people together in a positive way. Think of the angel of the north. Adopted by the people of the area.
Of course, we have the scallop by Maggi Hambling in Aldeburgh. Very interesting as there are people who both love and hate it. This can only be positive. It brings the debate to the people and engages the community. There is no such thing as good or bad art I guess?
I very much relish the prospect of creating work for the community. What could be more important for an artist. I hope to create something that will reflect the community, and be embraced by it. Of course there will be those who object. But that is life.

SUNSET ALDEBURGH

2012-01-19T09:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a new work. Using the found wood talked of earlier, and elements of collage. 25cmx23cm.

LONDON ART FAIR

2012-01-19T00:52:00.000-08:00

Had a good day yesterday at the London Art Fair. 100 galleries to look at.
There was some fantastic work on show, and gave inspiration. Lots also that I would not want to own. Some very poor painting, some amazing. I guess that is to be expected.
A useful exercise. And well worth a visit if you get the chance. There were lots of people milling round. Looking at the work there were not too many red dots which was a supprise. Perhaps it is just a sign of the times we are in. Having said that I did see a couple of paintings sold at £65,000, so not all doom and gloom.
I did avoid the Damian Hurst work. From a distance it seemed very dull now. The production line keeps on churning it out.
The best work to see in my opinion was the St Ives crowd. Some great Peter Lanyons. If I had 45,000 to spend that's where my money would have gone"!

ARTISTS LIFE!?

2012-01-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

The title of my blog is 'my life as an artist'. I have not really talked about this so far. Like most artists I am normally pre occupied with the work I am doing. Rather than the life bit. Life is something that just gets in the way of working.
To be a good artist in my opinion you have to be very selfish and self absorbed. I guess I am a bit of both really. I am always thinking about the next thing to work on and where the inspiration is coming from. The subject occupies my thoughts. It has to. There is no other way to exist.
Having a family makes the life balance difficult. I think to be a truly great painter or artist, you have to have no other dependants. The work is the only thing.
I am happy with the balance I have with work and family, but at times it is very hard. If I could spend all my time working I probably would. I would not be happy, but it is a driven aspect to me that pushes me on.
Touch wood I have never found it hard to get inspiration to create.
I am lucky in that I have a key patron and guide, who keeps me on the straight and narrow, focus is difficult when I have so many ideas.
Perhaps that is enough of my ranting for a bit, perhaps more soon....

Framed

2012-01-16T10:28:00.000-08:00

Today I framed the found landscape. I had to make up a special box frame as the wood is over and inch deep. Painted white, so the found element works well. I have enough visual interest from the piece of wood that washed up to allow me to make and frame about 4 pictures. Bet people wont believe that I have not added any paint to make the image. They will work as they are.

This is very much a one off, as unlikely to find something like it again.

So I will be back to the paint brushes very soon. Just waiting for some new toner for the printer, so I can print some reference images of the Aldeburgh boat club.
Watch this space for new developments!.....

FOUND LANDSCAPE

2012-01-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

Here is part of a large piece of driftwood I picked up at Aldeburgh boat club. It was a plank from an old hull I guess. Washed up on a very high tide. The texture and colour by accident seemed to represent a scene from the area where I found it. I have done nothing to it. Amazing how nature can be so creative with little input from man!

ALDEBURGH VIEW

2012-01-14T11:43:00.000-08:00

This is a view from the Aldeburgh Boat Club. I intend to use some photos as inspiration for a series of new paintings. Water is something new to take a look at. I am looking at a wider view, and trying to connect with a sense of place and space

BIG painting details

2012-01-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

Here are some close up details of the Big Dunwich view painting, so you can see brush strokes and texture otherwise lost on the earlier image. Hope they are of interest!...

LONDON ART FAIR

2012-01-13T09:30:00.001-08:00

I am going to take a look around the London Art Fair next week. 100 galleries showing, so should be very interesting to see what is out there!

BIG DUNWICH VIEW

2012-01-13T09:28:00.000-08:00

This is a painting of Dunwich Heath that is in progress. Oil on canvas, 1.5M x 1.2M.

Good to get immersed in a large work. About as big as I can handle in the studio. Any larger and it would be over more than one canvas.

NEW PAINTING

2012-01-10T09:54:00.000-08:00

After some time I have taken up the brush. Nearly 2 years since since last painting. (other than a large commission). This is oil on canvas, 40x40cm. Dunwich Heath. Suffolk.

A good feeling, painting. Just the joy of paint on canvas is something I had forgotten. Watch this space for more...

SEATED FIGURE READING

2012-01-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

Latest sculpture of a seated figure reading. Mixture of, brick layers trowel, gardening trowel, door handles, mussel shells, and hinged rulers. With a hinge as the spine of the book seems to work well.
Let me know what you think...

Happy New Year!

2012-01-07T01:02:00.000-08:00

Hope it was a good festive break and new year.
Sorry not to update for a while, but I am back on the case now. And back to being in the studio.
I have posted a sculpture that I posted a while back, but I have added a crown which makes it complete, and much more successful!

The crown is made from a rain catcher funnel that a friend made at school. Made from copper. I have yet to show him as he is sailing mid ocean at the moment. Hope he approves...

BALLET DANCER

2011-11-29T09:24:00.000-08:00

I will be showing this sculpture of a Ballet Dancer at Dance East, Ipswich from this Thursday. Priced £450

Made with an old tennis racket, chair legs and picture frame.

MEXICAN IDOL

2011-11-29T03:48:00.000-08:00

This sculpture is unusual for me as I have painted it, and added collage. Let me know what you think...

SOUTH LOOKOUT Aldeburgh

2011-11-28T11:00:00.000-08:00

Had a good exhibition at the South Lookout tower in Aldeburgh on Sunday. Caroline Wiseman is such a good organizer of creative people. Lots of people showing interest in both paintings and sculptures shown. The OWL seemed to draw the most attention. The venue is very special, and lots will be happening.

I am part of her christmas exhibition at the Art House (Aldeburgh) on the 17th Dec. Other works by sir Terry Frost, Tim Farga, Telfer Stokes, Sandra Blow, Ben Nicholson and John Hoyland. Among others will be there!

I am working on more sculptures, and planning to start some painting. It has been a while since picking up the brushes.

Also plotting and planning events for next year...

Watch this space for further news!

Woman with outstretched arms

2011-11-23T12:13:00.000-08:00

this sculpture uses found elements as the main construction. I have added plaster to give form to the torso and head. I like the two elements working together. The plaster unites and gives detail where there was none. I wanted to make sure that I didn't cover the important aspects of the found objects, so knowing when to stop was important. That is true of all art in my experience.
The figure has been painted in white, only scraping through to the wood underneath for details to the face and hands.
I have been inspired by Picasso. Who better to show the way ahead.!

LLAMA

2011-11-16T01:44:00.000-08:00

Don't know how or why, but this sculpture turned into a llama. Using wedges from old woodworking planes, part of a coat hook and a bit of silver birch that I cut down in the garden last winter. Strange how elements come together. I am very much guided by the elements that I am using...

COLLAGE

2011-11-14T09:24:00.000-08:00

I am thinking of making some collages. Thought I would use some found images, as I do with the sculptures, and paint on them and add elements to make them something else. Like the sculptures seeing something different in the object. Perhaps use post cards or other printed material.
I will have to wait until something connects, then try the new idea.
Think it will be a natural progression from the sculpture to 2D. I will keep you posted on developments...

Pablo & Star

2011-11-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

Pablo is certainly growing. Dogs know how to relax!...

SOUTH LOOKOUT Aldeburgh

2011-11-09T11:50:00.000-08:00

This is a sculpture for an exhibition at the South Lookout tower in Aldeburgh on the 27th November.
I will be showing 4 other works.
I made an oak model of the building and used collage and acrylic. The images are works by other artists shown by Caroline Wiseman who owns and runs the lookout. She now shows work at The Art House opposite the tower on Cragg Path.
There will be regular creative events held, and many exciting projects undertaken. So watch this space...

ASHANTI Figure

2011-11-06T03:12:00.000-08:00

I always like the Ashanti Figures from Ghana. This is my interpretation. Using a crown green bowling ball, and a plumbers bob. The simplicity seems to work. The eyes were there as part of the bowl for identification. The owners initials are marked by small brass nails. The J working as the mouth. Tribal art often had nails incorporated, so the connection between the two is pleasing.

GAZZELLE

2011-11-05T06:01:00.000-07:00

I had been looking at an old plane I had in the studio for ages. I knew it was a great shape and would work well for a sculpture. It has taken me until now to figure out that it would make a perfect body and neck for this Gazzelle. It took me all day of looking at it for the penny to drop.
The first element to come together was the head and horns, which are part of a very old rebate plane. The wooden threads work well and the head shape was right. I didn't need to do anything to them.
The legs are wedges taken from other molding planes.
Lastly the mane is made from an old cloths brush that I bought a number of years ago. With advertising printed on it, which adds another dimension.
I have to find something for the tail which is the last element. Also I have to consider how to form a base/plinth.

WEIGHT LIFTER

2011-11-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

Started a few days ago, I have now finished this sculpture of a weight lifter. Using bowls, tennis raquet, float, copper tube and arms from an old carver chair. I have bronzed a piece of oak for the base. The figure has some movement which is important. What do you think?...

CLOWN

2011-11-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

This new sculpture made today uses some of the old floats talked about earlier. I thought it resembled a clown. I used a turned disk of steel for the base. This helps to ground the figure and give some weight. I like the idea of a simplified figure, as the mind fills in the gaps and helps put two and two together.

RETRO 21

2011-10-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

Check out Retro 21. A great shop in Framlingham that sells vintage furniture and things for the home. It is run by two lovely people, who are friends. Check out Nigel and Fiona's new web site. www.retro21.co.uk

The Decorcafe

2011-10-25T02:31:00.000-07:00

A friend from London is coming to see us tomorrow. Debbie has set up a new web site called www.thedecorcafe.com Take a look. Interior ideas and design. I will be part part of it with my sculptures and paintings.
There are courses on colour textiles etc. A good idea I think.
Debbie and I used to work together in the 'old' days in design. Also Alison Tomlin, who has stopped working in design like me, and is now making great ceramics.

Interesting the path life takes you on.

Plumbers tools

2011-10-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

Bought these old plumbers tools today from a local antique shop. They are lovely wood, and I know that they will be useful in making sculptures. They are great in their own right though.

Vallaurus locusts

2011-10-24T10:34:00.000-07:00

This is a collection of wall sculptures made in Vallaurus. They are of locusts, and are intended as wall mounted pots for plants. I like them as sculpture. I was left them by my tutor at college, who sadly died. I have finally found a home for them in our 'new' house. I love them, and they have great meaning to me.

New PLANE HEAD

2011-10-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

This sculpture finished a couple of days ago uses an old block plane for the head. It is quite an unusual one as it has a metal part underneath. This looks like a 5o'clock shadow luckily. The eyes were made from some old spindles drilled into. The ears were cut from the end of an old banister spindle. The nose as made from a wedge taken from another old molding plane.

PLANE HEAD

2011-10-21T00:42:00.000-07:00

A friend gave me 10 old molding planes to use. I have paid him by making this sculpture using one of them. I have only used elements from the plane,ie, the wedge for the nose, and the blade for the tounge. I carved a different eye on each side to give a dimension of character to the face. They are very happy with it!...

FIGURE OF 8 with balloon.

2011-10-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

I have added to an earlier figure. Thought the addition of the fishing float, as a balloon gave it a dimension that was lacking before. Also that injection of colour helps!

BALLOONS

2011-10-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is the 'Child with balloons' sculpture that I have been working on. Using the old pike floats that I bought from ebay. The figure is 6inches high. Standing on an oak base. It was difficult to make as the figure was carved from foam then copper wire was let into the foam to give strength. Bronze powder finish was used last. I think the contrast of the colourful floats works well with the figure. What do you think?...

CHILD WITH BALLOONS

2011-10-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

Below are 2 photos of the child with balloons sculpture started over the last couple of days. Carved in foam, then wire armatures inserted to give strength. I have started working with white plaster to give form and texture. The thin wire was inserted at an early stage for the floats (balloons) to be attached to later. He stands about 6 inches high. I have made a blackened oak base to mount the figure on. I will choose 5 of the old pike fishing floats for the balloons. (photos posted earlier).

STAR & PABLO

2011-10-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

Pablo is growing fast. These were taken a couple of weeks ago, and he is already bigger! Star seems happier to be with him which is great. Star is 11 now. Pablo is 12 weeks. Can you teach an old dog a new trick? We will find out!..

IDEA

2011-10-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

Had a thought what I could use the old floats for. Like the idea of a small child holding balloons. I can use the floats for the balloons. They are the right shape, colourful and could work on thin wire to keep them up, as they are very light being made of cork. Perhaps make the figure out of plaster to contrast against the colour of the floats.
Worked on the OWL again today. Painted the base in bronze powder. Contrasts well against the terracotta colour of the owl. Also made a deep wooden plinth for it to sit on.

OWL PROGRESS

2011-10-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

As promised here is a photo of the OWL with a bit more work done. He is taking shape. The coloured plaster seems to work well. Like the binoculars showing more on this one...let me know what you think?

FLOATS

2011-10-09T08:29:00.001-07:00

Here are the old pike floats that I have been collecting. Still more on the way. Not sure how to use them yet?...do you have any ideas?

RAIN

2011-10-09T01:02:00.000-07:00

Dam, raining this morning, was due to go to the last car boot sale.
Still it's the private view of the Halesworth Arts Festival at 12.00 today, so hope to get a good turn out. Should be a good buzz. Hope to get some sales of the new sculptures. This is the first time the bronzed sculptures have been shown to a big audience, so will be good to get some feedback.
I did do some more work on the owl yesterday, but didn't take any photos, so will post some on Monday

I did win some more old pike floats on ebay yesterday, so adding to the collection. Had a thought they would make an interesting necklace. Just an idea, will have to think more!

NEW OWL

2011-10-08T01:31:00.000-07:00

Below are two photos of the new owl sculpture in progress. I built up the form from foam and wood. Talons from copper wire. I have started to use the terracotta plaster that I ordered. I came yesterday. Good old Tirranti. (suppliers). I want to keep more of the binoculars exposed on this sculpture. Not sure how to treat the base yet , perhaps paint it black. May get into the studio today at some point, so will post more progress images soon I hope!

HALEWSORTH ARTS FESTIVAL

2011-10-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

I have just taken 12 new sculptures to the Arts festival in Halesworth. Looks like it will be a good festival. Lots of arts happening. Other artists showing include Bruer Tidman and John Kiki.
Take a look at the web site for a full list of events. www.halesworthartsfestival.org.uk

Come home with bad back ache from lifting a heavy plinth. Hope it doesn't stop the tennis playing tomorrow night. Just bought a new raquet that I want to try out!!

I should be back working on the new owl sculpture tomorrow. I have ordered some new terracotta plaster hope it comes soon.

I also won a bid on ebay for some old fishing floats which is great as the will make useful additions in new works!

TAWNY OWL

2011-10-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

Today I started work on a new owl, using old binoculars for eyes. I have started building the underlying form ready for the plaster work. The eyes will be big in proportion to the head which I wanted. Not sure whether to use the terracotta plaster for this one. May do as it will add an earthy natural quality....watch this space for developments!

ELEPHANT

2011-10-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

This is a new Elephant sculpture. I mentioned earlier that I had found an old gramaphone horn. Well here it is. I used an old tennis raquet for the tusks, which is coloured very like ivory. I only added some lines on the trunk and the eyes with charcoal at the end, which I think pulled the form together well. There is a bar of oak across the back which allows it to hang on the wall.

NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY ART!

2011-10-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

I think that with the financial situation in the world at the moment, where money has become such a worry with global recession, now could be the best time to buy art.
The markets are an uncertain place to invest. Whereas 'art', and investing in new emerging talent could be a great punt. If you like a painting or sculpture and buy it, you have the great advantage of enjoying living with the investment. Unlike stocks, or wine etc where they have little or no asthetic value.

In hard times we all need something to make us feel good, and give pleasure. Art certainly fills this need.

Let me know what you think about this view, but it seems to make sense to me.

BOAT HEADS

2011-10-03T10:51:00.000-07:00

Above are two 'Boat Heads'. These are made from small carved toy boats that I found in a local antique shop. They made perfect heads as the nose and profile are there as the keel of the boats. They have a great worn quality. One with old paint still on, the other showing the natural grain. They are about 6 - 8 inches high.

ROMANY STUDIOS

2011-10-02T06:28:00.000-07:00

I am now showing some sculptures at Romany Studios in Tunstall. It is a great little gallery, showing paintings, printmaking and ceramics. It is run by Nigel Casseldine, RWA and his wife Jenny Partridge who is an illustrator. They select very carefully the work they show, and opened in 2003. Both being artists they have a good eye for interesting work. They have a small area for a great coffee or tea, which adds to the atmosphere.
Take a look, www.romanystudio.co.uk

PRIVATE VIEW

2011-09-30T23:51:00.000-07:00

The private view last night was good. Lots of positive comments about the new sculptures. Sold 2 sculptures, and a couple more possibles. The OWL and small OYSTER CATCHER sold.
The food from Pinney's of Orford went down well. And wine from Shawsgate vineyard down the road.

SMALL CHILD WITH BALL

2011-09-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

Here is the finished sculpture. Let me know what you think. I would be interested in your comments!...

SMALL CHILD

2011-09-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

This is a sculpture I have been putting together today. In between looking after Pablo the puppy, and getting ready for the private view tomorrow. It is made from an old brass ball, oil can, bit of turned wood, small spindles from a chair back and a piece of scaffold bracket found on the beach in Aldeburgh.

INSPIRATION

2011-09-29T07:24:00.000-07:00

Here are 2 photos that help me with creative inspiration. The first are some flint stones that I picked up while out walking the dog in local fields. They are wonderful natural forms that are totally connected to the landscape. Nature always seems to provide the best inspiration and creativity. After all its been here just a bit longer than us!
The second is a pile of off-cuts in the studio. They were just thrown in a pile on the floor, but they have a beauty and playfulness all of their own. They would make the start of an interesting abstract painting or collage.

Inspiration comes from all around us.

EXHIBITION photos

2011-09-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some preview photos of the exhibition. A small snap shot. Will take more when up and running. Good to get some paintings out of the studio and on the wall. Normally we hang other peoples work that we have.

Always good to see work out of the studio as it gets lost in the overall clutter of the space. Now they can breath a bit!

EXHIBITION

2011-09-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

Now hanging paintings for the exhibition this weekend. Sculptures next.
Printed price labels etc. Should be a good 'do' on Friday night. Food from Pinney's of Orford smokehouse, local wine, and a talk by Polly Robinson from FoodSafari. Hope it's a good turn-out.

DESIGN

2011-09-28T01:09:00.001-07:00

I have changed the look of the blog. Hope you like it. Thought it was time for updating the title image.
The images seem to work better on a dark ground also...

BUG

2011-09-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

This sculpture of a BUG is made with door handles that we replaced in the house. The body is part of an old lamp standard.

BIG Puffin

2011-09-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here is the BIG Puffin. The lobster claw is painted this time along with the body. It helps to unite all the elements, and make a bolder statement.

FINISHED Avocet

2011-09-27T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the finished Avocet. I painted on the black markings which help give another dimension.

Avocet II

2011-09-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a new Avocet sculpture in progress. The pipe is yet to be fixed, but the plaster is carved. Just glued the leggs in to base. Think I will paint the black markings directly onto the plaster. Will post progress as it happens, so watch this space.....

FACES

2011-09-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some faces that I layed out on the studio floor.

Just a bit of fun really.

Hope you enjoy them!....

EXHIBITION

2011-09-26T03:15:00.000-07:00

AN APPETITE

FOR ART

AN EXHIBITION OF FOOD INSPIRED SCULPTURES

BY ROGER HARDY

PUFFIN, WITH LOBSTER CLAW

A FRINGE EVENT FOR THE ALDEBURGH FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

OPENING EVENT

FRIDAY 30^th SEPTEMBER, 6.30 – 8.00 pm LOCAL WINE & PINNEY’S SEAFOOD IN ASSOCIATION WITH FOODSAFARI

CASTLEWINDS, BADINGHAM ROAD, FRAMLINGHAM, IP13 9HS

(OPEN STUDIO WEEKEND 1/2ND OCTOBER, BY APPOINTMENT MONDAY 3^RD – FRIDAY 7^TH OCTOBER)

T: ROGER 01728 720055, E MAIL : POLLY@FOODSAFARI.CO.UK

CAR BOOT

2011-09-25T09:01:00.000-07:00

Went to a great car boot sale today. Picked up, 2 old smoking pipes, 3 old crown green bowls, 2 scroll brackets, 2 old fold out inch rules, a nice old GPO bristle brush, a set of 2 butter pats, and 2 exercise clubs!
Not a bad haul. They will all be re invented in sculpture form.
Shame it is coming to the end of the car boot season. I will have to cast the net further!....

ART school

2011-09-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

Do you think that painting or sculpture can be taught at 'art' school?....

I am not so sure. Perhaps the technical side to sculpture.
Creativity can never be taught I think. Only through the process of doing it can anyone learn.
It is up to the individual to discover how things work.

It is a hard game and it takes a long time, probably a life time to reach any conclusions.

A lot of creativity is expressed through accidents. That's something you can't be taught!

COMMENTS

2011-09-23T23:57:00.000-07:00

Any comments on the work I have posted would be welcome. It is sometimes hard to gather opinions on work when working away in the studio. The people who have seen them have been very positive, and sales have been good. I have a showing of work coming up at the Halesworth Arts Festival......

cheers

OWL

2011-09-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

OWL. Finished. With bronze beak and base. These elements compliment the brass of the binoculars.

PIPER

2011-09-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

New Piper. Finished yesterday.

New Puffin

2011-09-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

New Puffin sculpture. All bronze this time. And larger. Used the other claw from the same lobster.

Aldeburgh

2011-09-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

Take a look at Caroline Wisemans Grand Opening of The Art House in Aldeburgh. She has a web site that has details. It will be a good event, and a must for anyone interested in art in Suffolk and beyond. Many R.A. artists showing.
Also she has organised a sculpture exhibition at Glemham Hall, which has some great work including some large Frinks.

Good to know lots of exciting things are happening in the area!....

TODAY

2011-09-22T08:46:00.001-07:00

Didn't get a chance to do any creative work today. Spent the whole day raking out the mortar from brick paved area behind the house. Tomorrow should be a quick job of re pointing with a dry mix.

So back onto the Avocet PM tomorrow!

ELEPHANT

2011-09-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

Picture of me looking at the old gramaphone horn, that will make an elephants head. Thought I could make the tusks out of an old tennis raquet that is painted in an ivory colour. The horn came from an antique shop the raquet from a car boot sale.

PIPE

2011-09-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

This is the pipe I am going to use for the Avocet sculpture. It is the right shape and a lovely colour.

FRINK exhibition

2011-09-21T11:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the FRINK exhibition at Beaux Arts, London.
Some fantastic work. I am a bit of a fan. Who else out there likes Frinks work.
They are mighty....

PLOVER

2011-09-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

Here is the Plover I have been working on today. Using 2 crab shells from Pinneys of Orford. Glove stretchers for the beak.
Will be working on the new Avocet sculpture tomorrow all being well!......

STUDIO

2011-09-20T23:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of my studio space. An organized mess, like a lot of studios. I know where everything is. I think! The building is 10mx4m. Never big enough, but should be.

OYSTER CATCHER

2011-09-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Started working on an Oyster Catcher today. A tricky one as the 2 wings are made from crab shells, and the beak from a small bone glove stretcher. Its starting to come together. Plaster is great for uniting the elements in a way that doesn't compromise the objects. When bronzed, the elements take on more dimension.

I have also started making an Avocet. Using a pipe for the head again. Avocets are common at Minsmere bird reserve that is just down the road. They are very unique looking birds with upturned beaks. Perfect for the pipe I have.

Another project I have in the wings is an elephants head. Using an old gramaphone horn. Watch this space for progress when it happens!!......

PIPER

2011-09-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

PIPER, using old pipe, plaster and bronze powder. This is my latest sculpture. I have made a pair. The other bird is in a different position with a straight pipe.
I am in the process of making another puffin, and an oyster catcher, using crab shells for wings, and a glove stretcher for a beak. I will post photos when finished.
Let me know what you think of the photos!......

Star and Pablo

2011-09-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

Star and Pablo waiting for their dinner! Thought this was an interesting image through the glass.

OWL

2011-09-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

OWL in progress. Going to keep white, apart from a bronze beak and base. 30cm high.

PABLO

2011-09-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

Pablo asleep, now 9 weeks old!

SCOPES OWL

2011-09-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

1st stage. Using opera glasses, foam and wood.

Stage 2. Using plaster.

Stage 3. More plaster work.

Stage 4. Building up texture and form with plaster

Stage 5. Working on tallens.

I will be working on this one for a while. Carving the plaster and adding more plaster.

PIPERS (sand)

2011-09-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

Work in progress. 2 Sand Pipers. Bought some more pipes at a car boot sale today. So more birds could be on the way!

DANCER

2011-09-10T10:39:00.000-07:00

JUst finishe a new sculpture of a dancer. This is a comission. Using old squash raquet. Base is an off cut of decking, which I thought looked like floorboards of a stage. The dress is a piece of broken sunburst clock. I re-guilded the edges where I cut through with the bandsaw. Let me know what you think?

NEW ADDITION TO THE FAMILY

2011-09-08T00:26:00.000-07:00

Here is Pablo, the new baby. Named after the Spanish pirate of a painter Picasso. He is a whippet bedlington cross. 8 weeks old. Ahhh.

NEW WORK

2011-09-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

Here are the 2 new sculptures I have ben working on. The first 2 are the sandpipers that will have pipes for heads/beaks. Carving bodies out of plaster that will have a bronze finish.
The big Puffin is under way, again carved from plaster with a large lobster claw from Aldeburgh for the beak. This will also have a bronze powder finish.
I will post progress as it happens!

Henry Moore

2011-09-07T00:25:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo taken of a Henry Moore sculpture at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park this summer. The kids had a great time. A wonderful place to visit.

PIPES

2011-09-05T09:34:00.000-07:00

Just started making 2 Sand Pipers, using old pipes for the head and beaks. They are a little long to be accurate to the species, but I liked the pun.
I have formed one body in plaster, think I will use the bronze powder to paint the bodies, and leave the pipes as they are.
I will post some images when they are at a point to show.

PUFFIN with lobster claw

2011-09-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Puffin with lobster claw. Plaster and local lobster claw. Painted with bronze powders. Let me know what you think!...

Bronze

2011-09-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

Starting to use bronze powder to colour some of the plaster elements of the sculptures. This makes a greater contrast against the found element and gives the works more gravitas.
Whe I post an image let me know what you think!

UPDATE

2011-09-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts recently!! The computer was broken and we have only just got it back.
I had a good exhibition at the Pond gallery in Snape. The sculptures went down very well.

Now I am getting back to some work. As soon as the kids go back to school this week I will get even more done.
I have finished the bird with the lobster claw bill. I will post photos very soon.

I have a fringe event for the Aldeburgh Food and Drink festival coming up. Then the Halesworth Arts festival. Lots to do.

EXHIBITION

2011-08-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

Last day of the Pond Gallery exhibition @ Snape Maltings tomorrow!!
Come and have a look.

cheers
Roger

VISIT

2011-08-13T10:58:00.003-07:00

Just returened from a visit to the new Hepworth Gallery in Wakefield. Also the Yorkshire sculpture park.
On the last day we went to Saltaire, to see the Hockney collection.
All three were very good and well worth a visit. Especially the new Hepworth Gallery.

Let me know if you have been and what you thought!

cheers
R

EXHIBITION

2011-08-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

Exhibition now on at the Pond Gallery, Snape Maltings. New sculptures and paintings by Rob Marrison.

PUFFIN

2011-08-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

I have started making a puffin sculpture. Using a lobster claw for the beak, and carving a body from lime wood. I think I will cover the wood in plaster so I can generate more texture and detail. Also it will create a better contrast between the claw element.
I will post some photos of new work soon. My main computer is in the garage being fixed, so only got this laptop at the moment!!

Go to the exhibition in Snape to see some in person!!

EXHIBITION

2011-08-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

Go and see my exhibition at the Pond Gallery, Snape Maltings. I am sharing the space with Rob Marrison, and he is showing new paintings.
I have 20 new sculptures to see, worked on over the last year.
The exhibition runs fron the 11th - 17th August.

Let me know what you think of the exhibition, and add your name to the mailing list for future events!

cheers
Roger

Hare progress

2011-07-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Work in progress. Carving a hare using lime wood. Starting to take shape. I am going to use a pair of old shoe trees for the ears. The form of them is perfect. They are such loverly things, and well crafted in their own right. Need to buy a couple more as 2 left feet at the moment!

Work bench.

Shoe trees for the ears.