Ashley Baldwin-Smith - Cambridge Artist
Metal sculpture created from found objects
Many of my sculptures are created from found metal objects. Whether it is; a surgical instrument, farm implement, part of train or car engine, the item keeps some of it’s original connotation but also takes on a new meaning. I like to think my artwork is environmentally friendly as in many cases the completed sculpture reflects what we throw away or dump. It is also exciting, as depending on what source or find I never really know what my next sculpture will be. I like to live with objects for a while, get to know them, until ideas form.
Why metal?
After leaving school I trained as an engineer, including advanced welding, fabrication and mechanical drawing and design. I worked for a number of years as a prototype engineer designing and constructing everything from roll cages for cars, food processing production units to computer rack systems. However, after an injury to my leg (now fully recovered) I decided to take a B.A. (Hons.) Degree in Art and Art History where I was able to combine my engineering skills with my art.
Inspiration
The sculptors that have most inspired me would be Sir Anthony Caro, Julio González, Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, Alberto Giacometti but above all David Smith.
Click images below to enlarge:
Recycled Sculpture
A series of welded sculptures constructed from scrap metal, car parts, engine parts, surgical instruments and other found objects.
Viewframe
Constructed, from mild steel angle, for a exhibition held at the Institute of Astronomy, Cambridge.
Metal Owl
Constructed from found objects
Crazysect
Constructed entirely from surgical instruments and has moving parts
About 16 inches high
