Helen Snell’s paper scultures wow OVAS, 4th July 2014

 

Member and guests of OVAS at the meeting on 4th July were enthralled by visiting artist Helen Snell as she explained her inspiration and demonstrated how she produces her amazing sculptures.  During the evening those present were able to have a go themselves at applying Helen’s techniques to produce simple works of their own.

 

Helen’s inspiration grew from a childhood obsession with collecting wrappers and packaging and the way these are often folded into 3D shapes.  After initially studying at Exeter University, she trained as a printmaker in Dijon, becoming well known for her 3D screen-printed structures, before completing a Master’s degree back in England.  Many will remember her installations such as “Liquid Landscapes” on the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth, where she collaborated with the U.S. choreographer, Stephen Koplowitz.

 

She now works in a variety of materials and often uses laser cutting equipment to obtain the intricate shapes which characterise her work.  Her sculptural installation “A Short Fuse” is currently on display at the National Museum for the Royal Navy in Portsmouth and will be there until the end of October.

 

Neil Marshall, chairman of OVAS, in thanking Helen at the end of the demonstration, spoke for everyone there in saying how inspiring it is to see how such an original and talented artist produces her work.