Owl, by Philip Samuel Black
Owl is not based on any of the species; it is rather my impression of this unique bird, so my sculpture is unique. I have a vague memory of my first encounter with an owl. This was in a remote area in the wilds of Scotland, where, in our garden, a bird landed on an upturned plant pot, tidied its wings, hooted and stared at me from big round eyes. Is this what you see as you look at my sculpture? Like many, I have a fondness for the bird. I have had the pleasure of observing many different owls, large and small, since that first encounter. They always leave an impression.
Owl is formed in clay, fired in an electric kiln, and then fired in a pit to produce the final smoked appearance.
Philip Samuel Black is an architect, sculptor and potter. As an architect, I have been privileged to design many buildings in different parts of the world. As a sculptor, I have exhibited in prestigious exhibitions, including the summer exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy, for three years running. I became interested in pottery ten years ago. It was then that I found the versatility of clay. I use clay to make pots, but not only, as it has also become my media of choice for sculpture.
As a keen gardener I always think that a garden is enhanced by having sculptural objects in its layout. This has been a grand opportunity to practice as I preach.
