Simon Shepherd

Cheeser

2024

Simon Shepherd, Spalding, 2023 Ceramic and resin sculpture 50 x 35 x 30 cm (19.69 x 13.78 x 11.81 in) Edition of 3 + 1 Artist Proof This is the last work in the collection and is ...

Tony Pharo, Me When I Have An Off Day Acrylic, oil, oil pigment stick, charcoal, pen, spray paint, airbrush, pencil, coloured pencil, pastels, charcoal powder, printer ink on raw ca...

Particle IX (Nine) Materials: Ceramic, glaze Year: 2016 The formal languages and frequencies that we find in the natural existence of the universe inform and inspire the investigati...

Text by Michelle Cantin-Reid The common object reconstructed through skilful assembly and technique; casted, welded, and chased metal forms; almost perfect doppelgangers of the originals, this is how Zeke Moores’ work appears. Upon closer consideration, the materiality of these pieces comes to light. Deceivingly close to the real thing, they greatly diverge from the original. From chromed steel Trashcans to the reconstructed Port-O-Potty made from cast aluminum and nickel-plated steel, Moores uses metalsmithing techniques to render his sculptures, usurping of the traditional modes of mass production as well as the disposable materiality that we associate with these objects. In his work, mechanised assembly line production and objects made to be thrown out or forgotten become a craftsman’s labour of love. As the disposable dejected everyday object is taken from the street and placed into the gallery, our use and imposition of a hierarchy on objects becomes apparent. However, it also speaks of the amount of work no longer done by people or often done by a series of anonymous workers in a repetitive but carefully choreographed dance with machines. We approach very differently a practical or a mass-produced object and one that is crafted. These works also celebrate those objects designed for practical but not specifically aesthetic purposes. The imposition of a new materiality gives them durability and in the case of bronze casts or chrome plating a superficial prestige. Sitting in a gallery contemplated and beheld, the cast bronze Barrier is not unlike a monument or a statue. Though, these nobler materials are not wherein the beauty lies. Happy Meal...