Ed Hill

BIO

Ed’s artistic career started in 2017, after 8 years Primary School teaching. It was then that he decided to have a change of direction and begin pursuing his real passion for sculpting, as it appeared to be the right place and right time. His childhood was filled with creativity. “Making models was my chief source of amusement. Sculpting came so easily, an area I could excel, feel valued and enjoy many hours lost in other worlds. It was a meaningful way to engage with the world around me.”

Although his career started relatively recently it began much earlier at the age of 16 in 2006 as a hobby in his parents’ garage. “My teachers at school challenged me with the project theme titled: ‘think outside the box’ I took this as an opportunity to do just that. I experimented with less conventional materials. My Dad also had a wealth of experience in metalwork from his earlier days he could share with me too. After buying my arc welder and angle grinder I quickly began to experiment and soon recycling metal became cheaper, topical and interesting too.

For the last 7 years birds have been my primary focus of study. I only like to sculpt wild animals, because there is something to be discovered about them and share with others. Birds are the only wild animal I encounter on a regular basis. As someone who spent hours making ‘stop-frame’ animation videos growing up, movement fascinates me. I like to know how they move. For example, the legs if done correctly can bring lots of life and agency if done correctly. Otherwise, it looks awkward or dead. This is why I study lots of photos and videos to make sure I’m understanding this right.

 Another reason I love birds so much is because they occupy another realm. They do what is other worldly to me. They fly, perch, splay feathers, land on vertical surfaces and balance on the thinnest of stems. They therefore offer endless possibilities.

I am currently working my way through a series of iconic birds, ones that are instantly recognisable. This year is the long-tailed tit. Like a caricature I really want to identify and understand the main features. Because I don’t work in colour, shape is really important. Being sociable, I have begun to explore different ways I can group them.