Artwork description:

This powerful figuration comes from an earlier series of work, investigating personality genotypes through a sculptural expression based on their homeopathic remedies. I was so intrigued by this idea that I published a Kindle book, with commentaries, entitled: “Gorgon of Clay: A Sculptural Exploration of the Homeopathic Genotypes”.

This female subject is a mirror for the powerful and all-encompassing homeopathic remedy of sulfur. I refer to her as “The Oracle”. Swathed in her generous raiment, resplendent in prominent shadows, her costume is reminiscent of the earth’s crust surrounding a volcano, where elemental sulfur is often found. The overall shape of her gown is like that of a volcanic cinder cone, wide and circular at the bottom, tapering to a flamboyant point, shown with all the ramifications or an emotionally erupting and intense personality. At the same time, it also represents the surface of a meteorite with its semi-melted “fusion crust” suggesting familiarity with distant worlds. Her arms are almost shaped like wings or feather-like ridges that grip tightly around her sides, suggesting protectionism of profound secrets, hinting that knowledge is her most important possession. Her ancient and speckled face reads like an oracle in a trance. The lustrous high points that define her face, reflective like gold nuggets, point to a profound appreciation of obscure and beautiful things. Her colloquial title of “Black Spring” evokes references to artesian springs, and the mysterious workings of the earth and the life forces it sustains. Her season is not to be mistaken for Spring, but instead Autumn, with its association to wisdom, a lifetime of learning and finally the impermanence of life.

Materials used:

Bronze