Tel: +44 (0)1750 82 272 SAM WADE
CONSTRUCTIVISM IN THE ROUND : A STATEMENT
Movement is essential in my work, which attempts to explore the changing relationships between objects as they are propelled along designated paths. In this respect what I make may be described as kinetic sculpture, the continuation of a tradition begun early last century to combine movement and machinery: ‘constructivism in the round.’
I work mainly in copper and brass, combining individual elements to make a sculpture rather than by using the more normal techniques of carving and casting. Copper and brass are forgiving metals to handle, being easily cut, bent, shaped and joined. The metals may also be patinated to give them an attractive weathered finish.
The piece CONSTRUCTIV.CLOCK_1 takes the theme of an abstract composition of disparate elements held in stylised tension and adds a hidden motor. The sculpture then answers the question: "What happens when the equilibrium of the elements is upset ?" The observer is able to consider the effect of the changing dynamics as the elements rotate slowly through space, and time.
The front element doubles up as the minute hand and the square behind as the hour hand, so the sculpture also tells the time. CONSTRUCTIV.CLOCK_1 adds the frisson of an apparently random event, when the long bar sweeps rapidly across the face once every hour.
The sculpture FLIGHT is another typical kinetic, though here more controlled. The wings, which replicate the silhouette of a WWII Spitfire, spin slowly round whilst the whole assembly rotates at a stately 1 revolution per minute to simulate a graceful airborne performance.
The fountain SPINNER imitates the sight and sound of running water. The vertical disc spins by way of a turbine mechanism standing in the water jet. The mood of the fountain can be altered by simply giving the horizontal disc a quarter turn to change the water flow from a splash to a murmur.
BIOGRAPHY
Born in Birmingham, England, in 1944 I trained initially as a Civil Engineer before developing my involvement in sculpture when my career brought me to Scotland nearly 30 years ago.
I exhibit in prestigious galleries all over the UK. I also have a sculpture in the Art for Europe exhibition presently showcased in Scotland House, Brussels, and due to continue next year in other European venues.
Sam Wade
