The fine line between drawing and sculpting
- Helaina creates delicate 2D and 3D wire sculptures using only pliers and her hands
- Her pieces are inspired by British culture and landscapes
- She participated in Collect Open in 2022
Once Helaina Sharpley's tutor at Hereford College of Arts suggested she turn her pen and ink drawings into wire, her journey as a wire sculptor kicked off. She is passionate about British tea drinking traditions and the Victorian era, and spends weeks on her drawings that are inspired by sepia photographs and ephemera. Helaina opened her first studio in 2006, and since 2010, she has worked from West Yorkshire Print Workshop. "My work crosses the boundaries between drawing and sculpture. I manipulate and join each piece of wire using pliers and my hands," Helaina explains. Her more recent inspirations include British wildflowers and the Yorkshire landscapes. She exhibits her works internationally and creates custom pieces.
Interview
- What was the first wire object you made?
- The first piece I created was inspired by the British seaside town of St Anne’s. It depicted Victorian ladies walking down the pier, all in one gauge of wire. My pieces have since developed into more delicate and intricate scenes.
- What does your creative process look like?
- Each piece still starts as a line drawing. If I can draw the image, I know that I will be able to recreate it in wire. A lot of the commissions I receive are architectural, such as churches and houses, with intricate details and perspective views.
- What is the most memorable moment in your craft's journey so far?
- Taking part in Collect Open in 2022 was a compelling event. I elevated my work in both scale, detail and theme, as I created a large hanging installation of an imagined landscape. I was exposed to a new audience and it helped develop me as an artist.
- What advice do you give to people interested in wire sculpting?
- It is possible! Find your creative community and learn from each other. You do not have to be perfect, but you have to give it your all and be authentic in your creations. Say yes to every opportunity given and do not be disheartened by rejection.
Helaina Sharpley is a master artisan: she began her career in 2006 and she started teaching in 2010
Where
Helaina Sharpley
