Emma Stothard
Boosbeck Buck
Willow and steel wire £2,750
When a creature that has been preserved as a trophy is recreated in willow it can become a visual metaphor for the animal - and perhaps its hunter.
Emma was born in Kingston-upon Hull in the early 70s, and now lives in Whitby, North Yorkshire, where she is currently sculpting with willow, making life size sculptures which can be sited in or outdoors. Her subject matter includes animals, birds and figures which she creates by studying the subject matter through sketches, drawings and photography.
The technique used is to soak the willow to make it pliable, it is then intensely interwoven and shaped around a metal armature or framework. Finally the piece is then coated in wood preservative to preserve and protect it.
Emma’s working drawings, which are an art form in themselves, are used as part of the process of producing the willow sculptures. The physical act of drawing on a large scale gives an exaggerated feel of muscle shape, form and movement.
Inspiration for her work surrounds her, whether it comes from the working rural environment of the rugged North York Moors, protected woodlands or the powerful forces of the North Sea.
