Mike Bigland
designer-maker sculpture jewellery
Introduction
After retiring from a successful 32-year career in engineering design and manufacture I needed to explore new interests and craft skills.
My studio/workshop is located in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire.
Previously I spent 10 years working in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter.
I am proud to have been elected as a member of The Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen. http://guildcrafts.org.uk
Working across these disciplines and incorporating my extensive engineering design & manufacture experience is very stimulating and encourages a cross-fertilization of ideas and techniques.
Sculpture
I studied sculpture with David Howorth in Bridgnorth, Shropshire. for over 2 years,
http://www.davidhoworth.co.uk/
I have studied wax modelling and also moulding and casting with Richard Feroze at West Dean College.
My sculptures Initially focused on the ethnic variation in both portrait and form working in clay, wax and plaster. I manufacture my own moulds and cast pieces in plaster, cement fondue and terracotta. I have work cast in bronze or other metals by a specialist foundry.
My latest work is in stainless steel and explores the essential elements of plant forms. All this work is of a TIG welded construction and is designed for external display within the garden environment, or as indoor arrangements. I am continually working on new individual flower forms for sale.
Jewellery
I studied jewellery design and manufacture with Katherine Campbell-Legg at the Birmingham School of Jewellery for 3 years.
http://www.katherinecampbell-legg.co.uk/
I am focusing predominantly on silver pieces with an Arts & Crafts or Mackintosh theme.
All relevant work is 'Hallmarked' at the Birmingham Assay Office. My 'makers mark' is shown below:
