What materials do you typically work with, and how do you choose them for each project?
My go-to material for sculpting is foam clay; it’s a lightweight clay which is so versatile. It feels like you can be really imaginative with it and create almost gravity-defying pieces. I see the bonnet / hat base as a blank canvas, and from there I want to add as much character as possible to that base, so I chose to sculpt and paint where I can. If I need structural supports then I’ll add those in using whatever material seems appropriate.
Things like the finishes will be defined by the structure. If I need some flex then I’ll use a lacquer spray for the gloss, otherwise I’ll use an epoxy resin. I’m always researching and learning and my roster of materials is ever-evolving.
I noticed you collaborate with photographers and makeup artists – how do these partnerships enhance your work?
I’ve really enjoyed the collaborations I’ve done. There’s always so much to learn from meeting other people, and I always leave feeling so inspired. I’d love to do more but I don’t have too much free time at the moment. Honestly the first time a model wore one of my pieces I felt like I was about to combust! They brought it to life gorgeously and I think it helped to create a whole ‘world’ surrounding the piece and a level of polish to the images which takes various different skillsets and viewpoints to achieve.
