Ian Etheridge

QUALIFICATIONS

Qualifications: BA Hons Fine Art (Sculpture) Wimbledon School of Art

ARTISTS STATEMENT

Ian has been working with wood since being taught the basics by a carpenter when he was 9 years old. After years spent working as a woodcarver he has developed as a sculptor who uses his considerable practical skills to create artworks from carved and constructed wood. These days he can often be found leading ambitious carving projects with groups of young people eager to learn the tricks of his trade.

His enthusiasm and commitment combined with a quiet nature and confidence in handling tools has rewarded him with a strong following in schools across the region. The children learn to use traditional tools safely and soon discover that being involved in a collaborative artwork is an exciting, challenging and life affirming experience. “I have been happiest when making things from as far back as I can remember. It helps me to make sense of the world, making something real that stands up and has a presence. I think it helps others too”.

    

SELECTED RESIDENCIES, COMMISSIONS AND EXHIBITIONS

2009
Large outdoor ship for children’s play area -  North Primary School, Colchester.
An English Dragon - Private Commission
Art Stop – Bus Stop firstsite in partnership with Colchester Arts Centre, Family art workshops in a London bus

2008
ArC (Art reflecting Citizenship), artist residency, commission and group exhibition, firstsite, CSN Consultancy & Colchester Schools Consortium (2006 – 2008)
Climbing Wall, commission, St John’s Green Primary School, Colchester
Art Week, artist in residence, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Ipswich

2007
Large outdoor sculpture, carving workshops, commission, North Primary School, Colchester
Carved memorial grave marker, private commission
Sculpture of St Edmund, private commission

2006
GenerArt, public commission working with young people, firstsite, Hythe Community Centre, Lexden Restorations, RIBA award winner
Colchester Connect (Healthy Living Project) firstsite with local community centres.
Professional Development Workshops for teachers, Colchester Consortium

LINKS

http://www.greensteadcommunitycentre.org.uk/gallery.htm

CONTACT

ianetheridge@hotmail.com
07749633932
01473 710549