Page 56 - Studio International - May 1966

but far too ambiguous to express definite, persuasive ideas His new work is an attempt to make 'a work of art as a
on society. They are poetic, not philosophic. concentrated bit of life, not just an object.' He wants
`I firmly believe in the metaphysical. I don't necessarily sculpture to contain the varied activity and imagery
want people to understand my work; mystery is all-im- which is possible in painting. Indeed, 'I'd love to use
portant. But the experience in the work must relate to smell, sound, movement—the lot!'
life. I suppose it is all directly autobiographical in the The new series of images being shown at the DRIAN GAL-
way that poetry is, rather than novel-writing.' LERY in May began with Blue torso, green hand, made in
He has written poetry since he was a boy and his visual 1964 from a tailor's model which he saw in a shop win-
imagery often finds its original concept in words. 'My dow and bought. He started to carve it, adding other
work arrives from a hazy image and confusion of ideas. forms and colour. 'It just happened', he says; his most
There appears to be no logical explanation for the result- surrealistic, sexual image, far more simple and direct
ing object. I attempt to construct on a formal basis, but, than the work which followed, it clearly acted as an
when working, imaginary functions and stories about the exorcism expelling the psychological barriers which had
particular object in hand creep into my mind when I am prevented him from working.
most occupied by the forming or technical process.' Machine A.D. 1965 is the bridge between the old and the

Left Above
The day it rained forever 1966 Blue torso, green hand 1965
Bronze and iron Wood, iron and plastic
Height 32 in. Width 18 in. Height 63 in.
Length 24 in.