EROSION

‘EROSION‘ draws inspiration from the aged marine pillars I observed during my time at sea, structures weathered over decades by the constant friction of ships’ lines.

This sculpture is crafted from mild steel, chosen for its natural tendency to rust and erode, gradually evolving to mimic the appearance of aged timber.

This work differs from its companion piece, Erosion II, through its expanded scale and material articulation.

Defined stainless-steel edges frame each form, while recessed bowls on top of the pillars collect water, inviting interaction between structure, surface, and the natural elements over time.

Over time, the mild steel surface will shift in colour from deep rust-red to rich, dark brown, echoing the slow transformation of natural wood.   In contrast, the sculpture’s solid stainless steel corner edges provide a sleek, contemporary frame.

Stainless steel leaf sections, positioned along the form, represent where the lines once chafed through the pillars, exposing their timber origins.

Dimensions 12x12x135cm  (higher pillar) – 12x12x100cm (lower pillar) – Secured underground.

I was delighted to have my sculpture ‘EROSION’ selected for Sculpture in Context 2025 which is celebrating it’s 40th Anniversary this year.

Sculpture in Context is a pivotal event in the Irish arts calendar and as the longest running, and largest dedicated sculpture exhibition in the country attracting a large public and critical audience and is the cultural highlight of the National Botanic Gardens’ calendar.