A selection of cement sculptures from many influences.
Aubrey Calendar
This commissioned piece is based on the 56 pole woodhenge, that would have pre dated the later stone circle at stonehenge. The holes for these wooden poles were discovered in 1649 by John Aubrey. The woodhenge was a solar-luna calendar used to keep track of the solar and luna cycles and to calculate when eclipses would occur. This is a larch board with yew and bog oak pegs.
The Harmonograph
The Harmonograph is a mechanical drawing instrument that uses either 2 or 3 pendulums to create unique images of various harmonics. The harmonics are changed by raising or lowering the weights on the pendulums. To create an image the pendulums are set in motion and the pen lowered on to the paper. The invention of this amazing machine is attributed to Hugh Blackburn, a professor of mathematics at Glasgow University in around 1844.
Canvas sailing canoe
Skin on frame canoes are no new thing. But the use of plasic waterpipe for the frame was something I had never come across and had to try. The addition of rudder, mast and sail was an afterthought but works great.
Rasp no. 1
This jagged shard hangs down about 2 ft. Free-form experimenting in texture. Of oak.
The Rasp no.2
This was just a bit of free-form carving. No design on paper and no marking out. A follow on from design no. 1. Of oak and standing about 4ft.
Black Star
Another one with a planetary theme. Carved from oak and about 5ft tall.
Luna Rings
Yeah this one is based on the moon. Simple and hypnotic. Carved from oak and standing about 5ft.
Brendan Voyage
Based on the Navigatio, the voyage of St Brendan. A truly remarkable journey from Ireland to the new world (pre Columbus), in a boat clad in ox hides. In 1976, Tim Severin, after building a medieval skin clad replica, follows St Brendan’s footsteps. Carved in oak. Approx 3ft x 1.5ft.
Sheela na gig
Sheela na gigs are found across Europe, but in larger numbers here in Ireland. Usually carved from stone, they can mostly be found in early church walls, but also in castles and bridges etc. Thought to be fertility symbols, as they all grab exaggerated genitals. Carved from oak. It measures approx 2ft long.
