Chris Chandler is a talented sculptor residing in Rock, Cornwall, drawing inspiration from the rugged coastal landscape that surrounds him, infusing his artwork with a profound sense of place and history.
Working primarily with raw steel, copper sourced from shipwrecks off Harlyn bay and locally harvested Cornish oak, Chris has garnered acclaim for his renowned "Fragments" and '8 Million' series.
Intrigued by the interplay between natural forces and the passage of time, Chris skillfully manipulates the materials, giving them with new life and purpose. The incorporation of copper from shipwrecks adds a compelling layer of narrative to his sculptures, as it carries the history and stories of maritime tragedies, becoming a poignant symbol of resilience and the enduring spirit of the sea. The "Fragments" series, born from Chris's deep connection to the Cornish coastline, is a visual exploration of erosion's profound impact on the landscape. Through his art, he pays homage to the gradual wearing away of cliffs and the relentless action of the sea, capturing the essence of transformation and the beauty found within the fragmented remains.
Chandler's "8 Million" series serves as a stark reminder of the escalating impact of rising temperatures and extreme weather events on our delicate biosphere. His powerful artistic response to this pressing issue sheds light on the catastrophic consequences of wildfires, hurricanes, and storms that have wreaked havoc on forests worldwide. In this poignant series, Chris confronts the grim aftermath of climate-induced disasters. The sculptures depict charred and damaged trees, with the once vibrant and thriving ecosystems reduced to scorched earth.
Chris's sculptures possess a tactile quality that beckons to be touched and explored. The interplay of light and shadow across the textured surfaces adds depth and dimension to his creations, captivating observers from every angle.
Chris Chandler has been widely exhibited, earning both critical acclaim and the admiration of art enthusiasts.
