The organic intertwining of two figures - loving, nurturing, joyful - the tilt of the precious faces adoring one another, Nigel Konstam's figures are inspirational. They are showing us the rhythmic dance of contentment. These couples born from the same stone, are sharing a soul of tenderness and love- living in unity . Solid, geometric figures - grounded, sturdy, simplified - knowing love and with love knowing all is possible.
These works are a parable for our lives today. We are often gripped in a world of separation - speeding aimlessly, hopeless and joyless. In Nigel's loving couples we find a way to remember that we are born from the same matrix - we too, can live life in harmony with one another and with nature; dancing in love, truly connecting.
In Nigel's student days the belief in abstract art was at its height. 'Functionalism' in architecture insisted on expressing structure. He admires the simple forms of Brancusi, inspired by Romanesque and African art. These ideas have influenced Nigel's style. Nigel, a figureative sculptor, uses this language to convey feeling as well as structure. He describes his own art as attempting to investigate life, using a simple scupltural language that all can understand .
Giacometti's focus on space led Nigel to his profound appreciation of Rembrandt, whose body language and command of spactial relationships create psychological drama. Rembrandt is Nigel's chosen master. He sees Rembrandt as leading humanity back to their ancient roots; connecting with nature.
The practice of drawing from observation (of the single nude) remains central to Nigel's art. The accumulation of observations over the years are a necessary foundation for his work. Nigel makes no preliminary studies for his carvings. They are realized through direct carving in stone . A conversation with the chosen material leads him to his final design. He is solving a three dimensional puzzle while finding a way to express feeling as he watches the figures emerging from the rock in slow motion.
These sculptures are life affirming. Love and joy radiate through Nigel's work – he hopes his legacy will provide mankind with more wholesome images of love.