Bob Oakes Sold at Auction Prices

Bob Oakes - Iron is an earthy element, smelted from its ore and wrought in the Smith's hearth in order to attain its final shape and form. At white heat it can be hammer-welded and possesses a fluidity almost characteristic of molten glass. These unique properties enable the material to express the depth of exploration and feeling latent within my work especially when married to other 'earthy' materials such as stone, glass, ceramics and polished agate.

Ideas, inspiration and images for my work are often sown as seeds that remain dormant in my mind for some considerable time before awaking to fruition as a basis for sculptural form. The final result often bears little resemblance to the original image only captivating brief memories and glimpses of texture and movement and colour.

For myself the foremost quality of expression in my work and the most essential ingredient can be summed up in one small word; 'Flow'. A static object is brought to life when flowing form has been employed within its exploitation of aesthetics, dynamics and movement.
Enjoy my work and go with the flow!