ARTIST STATEMENT
Prized, refers to something of high value with personal significance. However in this context, it has a sense of hidden ambiguity; while it may have a personal significance, it also has importance with regards to nature. The depiction of a deer head and skull can symbolise pride and value as deer are commonly hunted and displayed similarly to a trophy. On the other hand, it also symbolises death and loss with connections to spirituality. The combination of white and gold with pastel flowers evokes a sense of ethereal beauty and something otherworldly.
ARTWORK PROCESS
A life-sized deer head was sculpted from clay, with a real goat skull for reference. Once the sculpture was completed, it was cast in plaster and pinkysil (silicon rubber) to create a mould. After the mould set, the skull was placed in mould and clear resin was poured. The antlers were made separately with plaster with the same steps taken for the head, using real antlers to cast. Finishing touches where added to the cured resin deer head – gold flake embellishments and faux pearls, diamonds and flowers. A halo was also made from painted gold metal wire.
