We are thrilled to be displaying Clive's beautiful wire tree sculptures in our galleries, find out more from Clive about how his passion for trees began.
"For as long as I can remember I've had a relationship with trees. Most of us wouldn't notice how much of an impact trees have on our daily lives. It's something I have become acutely aware of in recent years following the start of my creative journey with wire tree sculptures.
Looking back, my first distinct memory of trees will probably be the same as many of you; climbing and playing in them as a young child. I was born, and grew up, in Edwinstowe; in the county of Nottinghamshire and can claim that I used to play in the Major Oak of Sherwood Forest. It has since been protected, held up by scaffolding and fenced around to prevent public access from compacting the ground around the roots. Legend has it that, the Major Oak was the hiding place of the medieval hero Robin Hood as he evaded the authorities. It currently has a circumference of 10 metres at the base, it boasts a canopy of 28 metres and is thought to be 800, perhaps even 1000 years old.
The impressive, inspiring beauty of a mature structured tree is strived for in the ancient art of bonsai, seeking to model these gigantic plants in miniature. I have long been fascinated by the curating of a mature tree in miniature form and grew several bonsai trees myself not too long ago. The variety and beauty of trees has become the sole inspiration shaping my creative craft. Many mutations are produced by environmental influences on the same species of tree whether from prevailing winds, deep valleys, significant rainfall or heat from the sun. . The majesty of trees will always serve to inspire myself both personally and creatively. I always aim to capture the splendour of nature. To represent the perfect imperfection of a tree. When I complete each sculpture I am urged to create another to try to mimic the beauty I see."
Come and see these impressive trees for yourself at our galleries in Marlow, Burford, Marlborough and Leamington Spa.
