Portland Stone Leaf Sculpture In the Making
This is a stone leaf sculpture I’m carving for the next exhibition in Weymouth. Art With a View, Dorset Art Weeks, 26th May-10th June, Venue 228.15, Old Castle Road, Weymouth. DT4 8QB. With other fantastically talented local artists, Olivia Nurrish, Andrea Frankham Hughes, Clare Francis Buckle.
This sculpture was inspired by previous work as well as the natural forms of leaves. No two the same. Their beautiful curves evolved to capture sunlight,( a bit like my sculptures?)
Block of Portland Stone for Leaf Sculpture
Working from the chosen block of Portland Stone and a rough idea, I begin by sketching out some profiles of curves. I guess a sculpture is an infinite amount of silhouettes that become a form.
Roughing out Stone Leaf Sculpture
After the tracing of the shape, I begin roughing out the form using a stone grinder. Trying to get as close to the form as possible without going too far! Which unfortunately sometimes it does! Still learning.
Then using chisels to refine the shape. Finally adjusting any bumps or dips using different grades of sandpaper until I’m happy with the result.
Leaf Stone Sculpture
Next comes the base. Which is actually quite difficult to choose. I do like the contrast of using another material, Wood, Steel, which compliment the sculpture. Still trying to figure out this one. Maybe a tree trunk would work? Watch this space.
While carving this sculpture so many different permutations have suggested themselves. I’ve learnt over time not to try and do everything in just one piece. To finish my original idea and then to move onto the next one. Some patience is involved as stone carving is a lengthy process
So I hope you’ve enjoyed this small insight into my working progress. Will post some pictures of the final sculpture ASAP. Obviously, for the tactile side of my work, you’ll have to come to the exhibition to see for yourselves. I will be holding some taster stone carving workshops for those of you who fancy some chipping! Have a look at my workshop page for details, dates and times will soon be fixed. Looking forward to seeing you there.