Artist's Notes

Michael works in both cold-cast and foundry bronze.

Cold-cast bronze is made from bronze suspended in resin, and strengthened with fiber-glass. In most cases the “patination” (colour and finish) is the same as that of foundry bronze. Cold-cast bronze is suitable for both inside and outdoor locations and with care, will last a lifetime.

Foundry bronze is hot poured bronze using traditional methods. It is very strong and is recommended for more delicate works. There is a wider range of “patination” and the choices of finish can be more subtle. Foundry bronze will last not only for a lifetime, but for generations to come.

In some pieces (Embrace, Focused, Global Juggler, Parallel Plane) lettering can be seen within the texture, initially not forming readable text, but as the work is completed, this lettering forms an essential part of the creative process.

Notes of Explanation Regarding Works

Balance
“if you know the point of balance
You can settle the details.
If you can settle the details
You can stop running around.
If you can stop running around
Your mind will become calm.
If your mind becomes calm
You can think in front of a tiger.
If you can think in front of a tiger
You will surely succeed."

From the writings of Mencius
Ancient Chinese sage.

Commitment
As the two figures look at each other their arms are supportive, forming a curve which is a shield or a heart. At the same time they may perhaps be looking past each other, seeking new horizons, but feeling secure in the support of their partner.

Embrace
A simple and joyful expression of optimism. Open yourself
up to the world. Breathe deeply, enjoy and make the most of life.

Focused
The feet are well grounded and the hands are steadfastly concentrating on the ultimate goal. It is a goal, which may or may not eventually be attained, but between the feet and the hands, the essential elements of our being are reflected by the body, twisting and turning through life’s journey.

Global Juggler
Signifying the shrinking world, and the interdependence we now share with one another.

Growth
The body is weathered through time and experience. The roughened bronze texture contains mechanisms from clocks and watches to depict the passing of time. The polished bronze of the head looks forward to the future with confidence.

Marilyn
In memory of a close friend.

New Generation
The Spirit of Youth.

Parallel Plane
Identical figures, diametrically opposed. They are the same, but they see and are seen from completely different perspectives.

Rhythm
The hypnotic state emanating from total immersion in the dance beat.

Supporting Brothers
A representative illustration of the relationship between the three brothers, physically melded together in an interlocking and unbreakable family bond. This link will always be there for better for worse, in this life and beyond.

Trust
With every action there is a consequence - we need to aim to make all our actions counterbalance.

Web of Life
Five figures circling, but each head different. The physical body remains constant - it is in the mind that we experience emotional and intellectual growth.