The Organic Beauty of Wood
Nature is a boundless wellspring of inspiration, offering timeless beauty and raw materials awaiting rediscovery. In my sculptural practice, I celebrate the organic beauty of wood, embracing its unique grain, texture, and imperfections as integral to its character. Each sculpture is a tribute to the natural essence of wood, transformed through meticulous craftsmanship and adorned with delicate gold leaf accents.
The addition of gold serves as a symbolic gesture, representing not only the preciousness of the material but also the transformative power of art. Just as gold imbues the sculpture with opulence and elegance, it reflects the inherent value and beauty found within the natural world. By honouring the qualities of the material, I seek to unveil its hidden splendour, creating artworks that resonate with the organic rhythms of the earth. In reshaping these materials with reverence and respect, I aim to forge a deeper connection to nature, inviting viewers to reconnect with its intrinsic beauty.
Creative Sculptures from Reclaimed Wood
I create unique natural wood sculptures, each enhanced with parcel gilding to blend organic textures and highlight striking contrasts within the wood. This technique celebrates the natural grain and texture of the wood, adding a refined, elegant touch through carefully placed gilded accents.
Each piece reflects a harmony between traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, crafted from raw, treated wood that has stabilised over months of natural drying. This careful process brings out the wood’s inherent beauty, resulting in sculptures that are both timeless and contemporary.
From Furniture Restoration to Sculptural Art
My journey as a furniture restorer, a craft I continue to practice today, has naturally led me to explore the art of sculpture. The skills and appreciation I’ve developed through restoring timeless pieces have inspired me to push creative boundaries, transforming wood into bespoke sculptures. This evolution allows me to merge the precision of restoration with the expressive freedom of sculpture, creating unique works that honour the natural beauty and history of the material.
For a closer look at my restoration work, visit De Lantivy Restorations to explore the craftsmanship behind every piece.
The Gilding Process
The gilding process begins with ensuring the wood is fully dry, free of dust, grease, impurities, and treated for woodworm. The wood is then carefully sealed to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the gesso.
I apply five coats of gesso, each layer sanded to a smooth finish.
Once prepared, a base layer of yellow clay bole is applied onto the gesso, followed by additional layers of various coloured boles.
The bole is then burnished with an agate stone, creating a smooth, glossy surface.
Finally, I apply 23-carat gold leaf, giving the sculpture its refined, luxurious finish.
