Sophy KING
I come from a design background and subsequently specialised in glass, gaining an expert knowledge of my material. I work well in a number of other materials and have a good understanding of various manufacturing techniques. I moved towards t work well in a number of other materials and have a good understanding of various manufacturing techniques. I moved towards theforum of art, and more specifically public art through working for Danny Lane, a sculptor and designer who works in glass and metal. During my time in his studio we made several pieces of public art in Britain and abroad, as well as his furniture range. Since 1997 I have run my own studio, during which time I have completed two major public artworks, as well as exhibiting and working to private commission. I am committed to making art in public spaces where it can be seen and enjoyed by people who would not necessarily go to galleries. I believe in art as an enhancement of our environment. In 1998 I won a £12,000 commission from Bethnal Green and Victoria Park Housing Association to make a sculpture as a frontispiece for a new housing development. Thhhe sculpture was designed to be sympathetic to the areaÕs mainly Muslim community. I created an abstract sculpture that works as the gnomon to a sundial laid out in the cobbles around it. The sculpture was made out of reinforced concrete with 25mm sheet glass cast into it. It has proved popular with the local community and has not suffered any graffiti or attempted vandalism. I am currently finishing a £20,000 sculpture for Groundwork. This is for a millennium park in Saltash, Cornwall, please see attatched. This work is made from sheet aluminium, with glass lenses set into them, showing a new perspective on the surrounding landscape. It takes its form from the Brunel railway bm from the Brunel railway bross the Tamar, which overlooks the site. It Both thridge across the Tamar, which overlooks the site. Both these projects have included a considerable amount of community workshops as well as designing, fabricating and installing the work. I have experience of working with engineers and planners.
