Andrew McCulloch

Included in the scope of my practice are my interests in nature and the living world around me; colour, and a real desire to know what my materials can do for my concepts. Initially for this collection, I have explored the mycelial realms of mushrooms and toadstools. Where my natural tendencies have sought to create stylized representations of nature that look demonstrably manmade; my discipline has taken on a more abstracted form focusing on the fungi gills and the radial patterns they form. Consequently, the results are combining both natural and architectural elements, using texture and colour to inform my works. Although sculptural in structure and appearance, this collection, Psychedelic: Fungills, is a jewellery collection crafted in titanium and silver. Fungi are often overlooked and so the subtle beauties in nature are missed. By using torch anodised titanium, I am creating boldly coloured pieces that have an alien cast while remaining uniquely ‘shroomy. The why of my choice of titanium is two-fold, because it allows for clean lined form with jewel like colour tones throughout; but also has enabled me to reduce my eco footprint, by not using acids, or solders or a wide range of steel tools and their associated industrial productions that impact the ecological balance. Although at times challenging; using the titanium has enabled me to achieve symbiotic jewels, whereby each piece is manufactured, but the colours that are inherent to the metal, and my necessary dialogue using fire allows it to blossom naturally. My intent while exploratory, is to elegantly deviate from nature while reminding the viewer of the works origins.