James Evans: Selected works, 2022

James Evans: Selected works, 2022

I am proud of this new work as it reflects more accurately what I have been trying to convey for several years and it is pushing me technically to achieve. On reflection, and looking through my sketchbooks, my interests that feed my concepts have changed little over the years; it is the means in which I convey them that have. Some pieces are process lead as I explore new technical approaches whereas other pieces are more intuitive as they develop. There have been two main sources of inspiration, the sensuality of the human form and the architecture of the domestic living space. I try not to be too rigid by sticking to the original idea when making and allow myself to play, exploring new paths as they present themselves. Clay is a great mimic allowing to me create something that looks soft and flowing when it is rigid and brittle. Combining these soft folds with those of a machined profiles is challenging and enjoyable. The surface treatment is varied and determined by the finished piece, each reflecting the passing of time. They are found objects that have been retrieved from the ground, lost in rubble or from the eroding shoreline. Objects with an unknown provenance from an indeterminable period. The finished surface illustrates my memories of walking on Suffolk beaches, exploring the ruins of military sea defences and objects found amongst the flotsam and jetsam combined with all that has been witnessed in the years in-between. Looking for beauty in decay.

Photo captions – All photos by Valerie Bernardini