The Artist
Bio
David Cruickshank is a Jamaican born, British artist who creates biomorphic forms in wood. From chainsaw to chisel, he has spent a lifetime exploring his love for trees and his intertwined history with them. From a young child climbing, to tree surgeon and conservationist of old structures, he has a deep rooted passion & respect for the woodlands and wood as a medium to express himself.
His tactile and evocative subjects are arrived at by following the grain of the wood unique to every piece. The splits and shakes of lumps of wood that have been seasoned for many years guide his eye and hand to discover the core of the character embodied in the organic growth of the tree.
Cruickshank not afraid to embrace technology and explore the potentials of the modern world with his existing history and the natural world. He has begun to explore the language and materiality of an object when it's scale or medium has changed.
Leaving new editions of original work cast in cold cast bronze and foundry bronze. Only a few of the older wooden originals remain as most have been collected. However Cruickshank is exploring some new pieces which will be announced soon.
Studio
& Gallery
Cruickshank carves from his home & garden in Rye, East Sussex. Tucked away from a cobbled street lies this hidden garden with hidden entry from a tunnel of fig and hydrangeas which open up to a spectacular view towards Rye harbour. Committed entirely to the natural world, Cruickshank spends his time carving or curating his garden.
Planted to perfection with sculptures scattered amongst the peonies and roses. Every piece becomes a part of the garden which he calls 'Nature's Gallery'
Once a year he opens to the general public during Sussex Craft Week in June. This is not an event to be missed. The garden brings a peace and serenity whilst his work explores the materiality and language of design, artistry and scale.
