Nick Mackman |
In 1992 INick Mackman began an HND course specialising in animal modelling, during which time she worked as a rhino keeper at Chester Zoo. This experience allowed her to get involved with a wide variety of animals and to watch, touch and study the nature of animals. She continued her education in Cardiff, where she earned a BA (Hons) in Ceramics.
I detail the mannerisms and character of the animals through sketches and photography, with reference to books, and wildlife documentaries. When modelling an animal I first consider its character and then try to emulate this through its stance, movement and expression. I aim to enlighten people to the beauty of those animals that are largely seen or represented as purely aggressive, dangerous or ugly. I hope that people will feel the individuality of each animal and appreciate its intrinsic beauty.
The clay body of each piece is made from T material, the strongest clay type, combined with paper pulp, which gives a strong but lightweight result.