Could you tell us a bit about the process of making your sculptures?
The works start off pretty intuitively. I usually begin by cutting and processing material and tacking things together. I don’t have a composition or idea in mind, more a scale and go from there. I predominantly work in metal, particularly steel, which can bent, folded and twisted whilst holding form and allows for a good push/pull process. I look for visual cues and how the material is behaving, against a set of my own principles that I use to gauge where I think things should go or be worked towards.
What are some of your recent sources of inspiration?
I am interested in the scope and effect of colour, in particular really high finish paint works, automotive finishes and custom car culture. There are a few tractor and truck shining expo’s that I was keen to go to before Covid-19 hit, where they hold a competition on who has the most polished chrome Truck bumper. I'm interested in trying to make alluring objects.
I am interested in the scope and effect of colour, in particular really high finish paint works, automotive finishes and custom car culture. There are a few tractor and truck shining expo’s that I was keen to go to before Covid-19 hit, where they hold a competition on who has the most polished chrome Truck bumper. I'm interested in trying to make alluring objects.
What have been some of the biggest lessons to you in 2020?
I’ve been learning to enjoy cooking more. I've also taken a lot away from slowing down, which has allowed for a lot more creativity.
I’ve been learning to enjoy cooking more. I've also taken a lot away from slowing down, which has allowed for a lot more creativity.
Which other Sunday Salon artist(s) do you admire and why?
Julian Hocking’s work has always been a stand out for me. His playful way of keeping things formal is great.
Julian Hocking’s work has always been a stand out for me. His playful way of keeping things formal is great.
What is something you are looking forward to?
More time in the studio, working with a more large scale approach, bigger pieces, different formats. I’ve always wanted to do an outdoor show, so looking forward to working on that possibility.
More time in the studio, working with a more large scale approach, bigger pieces, different formats. I’ve always wanted to do an outdoor show, so looking forward to working on that possibility.
See Basil's artwork here.