THE WORK
All of the pieces represent explorations of spatial geometry built up of simple forms embodied in particular materials, for instance square or triangular metal plates, or recycled railway sleepers. In an increasingly digital world, they are intended to help re-establish a sense of palpable and enjoyable physical reality.
Nicholas’ method is to explore possibilities using models, but the works are conceived as being quite large, so that they can be experienced by walking up to them or under them. In that way, and in their sense of geometric spatial order, they are quite architectural.
At this large scale, the force of gravity becomes predominant. One theme is to dramatise its action, so that while the works achieve stability, they may sometimes seem precarious. Another is to create curves or a sense of movement using simple straight-line forms, and a third is to celebrate the quality and strength of familiar materials.
The smaller works use materials more appropriate to their scale. They are intended be enjoyable objects in their own right, whose forms and material and spaces can be experienced from all angles.