In keeping with true folk art methods, I'm making the automata from reclaimed wood and found materials. This propeller (above) is made from scrap wood that I found lying about in our Fine Art Dept. at Huddersfield Uni - I love the blade on the left MMmmmmm
This is indeed wonderful, I really appreciate your recognition of the importance of the weathered "Folk Art" look of your whirligigs, and the acknowledgement that the unique beauty of these sculptures can add to the exhibition and display of your ideas more effectively. Too many such concepts are presented in anemic, almost clinical fashion, with no thought as to the visual element that could add another layer to one's understanding of the piece, and they are poorer for it. You have avoided this and the obvious love and patience with which you have designed them adds credence to your proposal.
ReplyDeleteCheers greaves, I'm trying to get them all out of reclaimed wood, but I fear some of the moving parts may have to be cut from MDF (DIY SOS fashion). Like you, I love the weathered look, but as you know, many folk art sculptures were indeed once brightly coloured and in many cases rather crudely painted. The weathering that seems to render them as beautiful objects came after half a century of enduring the elements - the question I now face is do try to simulate half a century of gradual wear and tear, or simply render them as our North American friends would have done 200 years ago...
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