Reincarnation of Skulls
I work with skulls because I wanted to do something different and unique that hadn’t been done before.
The evolution to creating art with skulls, although odd was a natural progression from a persisting curiosity with death and the afterlife. The natural formation and structure of skulls already has a powerful presence but I wanted to add more intrigue to this, to turn remains into fine treasures, from something possibly perceived as morbid to something festive and celebrated.
Using skulls in my artwork I wanted to create something beautiful from something that the world has finished with and discarded. I wanted to give each piece a new life, a new reason to be treasured and put on display. Each skull is lovingly restored and created to be unique with its own individual meanings. The only thing my skulls have in common is they all convey the simple message, there can still be beauty after death.
The inspiration for my work on the skulls has been influenced by the Mexican Day of the Dead, the festival which honours and celebrates the dead with the use of sugar skulls and flowers and vibrant colours for a festive theme.
some of the skulls have been influenced by poets, philosophers and renowned artists. My warrior skulls are based on the various cultural traditions of the decoration of remains in preparation of transition into the afterlife. More specifically from the ancient Chinese and Egyptian traditions.
The skulls with their colourful armour is a suggestion the animals in the afterlife are warriors or hunters rather than the hunted.
Most of my skulls are also adorned with Rhinestone crystals. The crystals used in many varying colours give them a movement and another dimension.
Above all I make these creations to evoke curiosity. I like to think each piece may engage a talking point due to its rarity and uniqueness, merely suggesting “Cant something dead possibly be perceived as beautiful?”
