Gareth Griffiths
University: University of Leeds
Graduation Year: 2002
New Blood Art Commentary
Notable Achievements 2021
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The fluidity of these metal sculptures is what is so immediately appealing about them: deconstructed and elegant, a perfectly balanced cascade arrests the eye. Inspired by bold architectural lines, made of steel and sometimes with wood, some works such as ‘Montabello’ and ‘Brentwood’ are designed to withstand the elements and look well situated in a garden, ambiguously organic. Either placed on a wall or freestanding, each sculpture demonstrates a unique variation on dynamic forms; it’s impressive how they achieve equilibrium apparently in a state of suspension.. Pieces of the sculptures only graze each other, to the effect that the segments seem to be lightly balancing on each other rather than welded together. There is something fortuitous about Gareth Griffiths’s works, which alongside their pop colours makes them endure in their compelling first impression.
Artist Statement
My work is influenced by West coast American “Googie” architecture. The origin of Googie derives from a John Lautner designed coffee shop built in West Hollywood. Originally appearing in commercial buildings such as restaurants, coffee shops, motels, gas stations and bowling alleys in the 50's and 60's - the distinct styling included curved lines, odd abstract cut–outs, up–swept roofs and boomerang shapes. My sculptures are colourful and eye catching, made with the intention of catching people’s attention and drawing them closer.
I am from North Wales - I studied sculpture at Bretton Hall College – (University of Leeds) graduating in 2002, and then subsequently went on to complete a Masters in Design from Leeds Metropolitan in 2004. I have been elected as a member of the Royal Society of British Sculptors, and have exhibited across the world in galleries in London, Liverpool (Tate Gallery), Leeds, Cardiff, London, Europe and America. Internationally I have had work on exhibition in Europe, Los Angeles and Palm Springs, and my work can be seen in private collections across Europe and America and Australia. my work has also been on permanent display at Michael O’hares Michelin stared restaurant “The Man Behind The Curtain” in Leeds.