Artist Statement:

I enjoy designing and manufacturing sculptural pieces that evoke memories of childhood with games and toys as the predominant theme. My work combines a craftsman-like folk-art quality with elements of fine art. I am interested in the stretching and blurring of traditional “art” boundaries where visual art is combined with a functional craft aesthetic to produce a hybrid piece of sculpture; incorporating both a sense of whimsy and playfulness.

A large part of my sculptural practice has been concerned with the creation of toys; primarily the re-interpretation of classic tin toy designs using modern materials and methods of construction. In many of these works I have added electronic components programmed to “interact” with the environment. The robotic contrasted with the natural is a dynamic that I am very attracted to and as such have tried to create robotic “facsimiles” of the real. The outward appearance of these toys reflects their historical influence as an object of play. I am hoping to encourage a sense of nostalgia about the past as well a positive nod towards the future of interdisciplinary design.

Currently I have been interested in creating art that incorporates aspects of science and alchemy. Grade 5 science experiments like creating a lemon powered battery caused me to explore themes of alternate and sustainable energy sources through fashion and design inspired pieces. The transformation of one substance into another plays a big part in this current body of work. The bio-degradable material will start to change over time and consequently will affect the functionality of the digital and LED-powered sculptures. I wanted to emphasize the slow passage of time as an ironic reaction to our fast-paced modern lifestyle.

Overall, I hope my work embodies a sense of wonder, exploration and curiousity about both the natural and scientific worlds.