Wycliffe Stutchbury, a talented artist known for his elegant compositions that are deeply connected to nature and the environment, is driven by his desire to capture the landscape of the human body and the country. Using handmade wood shingles sourced from materials like bog oak, holly, and ash, Stutchbury creates stunning elemental compositions that reflect his fascination with the natural world.
As a formally trained furniture maker, Stutchbury initially focused on creating intricate models of everyday objects after graduation. However, he eventually found his way back to woodworking and discovered a new passion for working with wood shingles. The artist describes wood as a miraculous material full of surprises, with each piece carrying its own unique character and history.
Stutchbury’s work delves into the complex relationship between humans and the landscape, exploring the tension between our attempts to shape and control nature and its inherent resistance to conform. He sees himself as an editor of nature, allowing the material to guide his creative process and reveal its inherent qualities and narratives.
One of Stutchbury’s notable projects, “The Craig,” reimagines the exterior cladding of a 17th-century stone barn in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. Using hundreds of shingles arranged in a delicate undulating pattern that follows the contours of the original stonework, Stutchbury transformed the barn into a work of art that harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings.
The artist’s approach to sourcing materials is just as unique as his artistic vision. He exclusively uses fallen branches from nearby woods for his projects, allowing the wood’s response to its environment to inform his creative process. Each work is titled based on the location where the timber was found, emphasizing the connection between the material and its origin.
Stutchbury’s artistic journey is marked by a willingness to embrace intuitive ways of working, allowing the wood to lead the way and shape the final outcome. Despite his technical skill and concentration, the artist acknowledges that imperfections and mistakes are an inherent part of the creative process, adding depth and character to his work.
Currently, Stutchbury is working on several commissions, including a project in Maine where he will clad one elevation of a coastal house with his signature wood shingles. His work continues to evolve, with a focus on larger installations, tapestry-like wall hangings, and architectural interventions that showcase the beauty and versatility of natural materials.
To explore more of Wycliffe Stutchbury’s captivating creations, visit his website and immerse yourself in the intricate world of wood shingles and elemental compositions that blur the line between art and nature.
