‘There is an unseen hand in my work and I am simply its caretaker. I work with the hues of the wood as if I’m a painter.’ – Lesley Hilling

Knight Webb Gallery will present a solo exhibition of several new sculptures by Brixton’s best known resident artist, Lesley Hilling. The exhibition will feature floor standing and wall sculptures made in found antique materials.

Both challenging and innovative, Lesley’s work is instantly recognizable for its organic, architectural forms and its understated elegance. Her background as a graphic designer has influenced these carefully considered compositions. All the works are made from salvaged antique furniture and found objects, many of which relate personally to the artist.

Hidden between the multi-faceted layers of each piece are old pianos, watches and family heirlooms. Her intricate works can take up to a year to assemble and complete.

‘The things I make can be separated into two types – the formal constructions made from different salvaged woods, and the more poetic pieces that will additionally feature found objects – things from my collections – cigarette cards, shells, coins, dolls, clock mechanisms, old photos, precariously placed magnifying glasses… I feel these pieces tell a story and the key to the story is with the viewer.’ -Lesley Hilling

Founded on a sense of nostalgia where the emphasis is on the collective and personal memory. Many of her constructions encourage the opening of doors and the pulling out of drawers. There is interplay between what is hidden, revealed and what is yet to be discovered. A walk on the beach or a country lane will produce all number of finds, such as crab bodies, drift wood, sculls, a dried frog; which can all be seamlessly integrated into the artwork.

‘Lesley’s work conveys a powerful sense of longing to preserve the fragments of the past, a desire for order, a passionate and mysterious evocation of lost moments.’ – Jane England, Director of England & Co Gallery