In the Design House, Nigel Ross, Kuro, 2019

(Below)
Nigel Ross
Kuro
2019
Charred Oak
45.1 x 109.9 x 37.5 cm
1ft 5¾ x 3ft 6¼ x 1ft 2¾ in.

(Above)
Prunella Clough
Fence and Gate
1956
Oil on canvas
51 x 41 cm
20 x 16 in.

Nigel Ross’ art practice emerged from an early career working in forestry on the Isle of Arran in Scotland, and by the mid-nineties, Ross was working full-time as a sculptor and maker. Ross carves abstract sculpture and seating from entire trunks of fallen wood, creating continuous shapes and forms – the rhythms and energy of nature being his inspiration.

Kuro takes its name from the traditional Japanese technique of scorching wood, used to create this sculpture to harden the surface, resulting in the charred, black finish. When asked about his intent, the artist explained that 'I was trying to make it look as if this heavy block of oak has been bent to give extra height. Of course, it started as a bigger block and was then carved into its present form.' (Nigel Ross)

Nigel Ross sculpts benches that are beautiful and inviting, combining form and function to create pieces of art that can be lived with. Ross first exhibited with New Art Centre in 2004 and again in 2007. Since then, his sculptural seating has become a permanent feature within the Sculpture Park. He often works to commission, fabricating bespoke sculpture, seating and architectural interventions for both public and private spaces, nationally and internationally. To find out more, please enquire below: