Loricae (Metal Mesh)
Lorica #6, wool and metal mesh, 10" x7.5" x 7", 2012
Lorica #6, detail, wool and metal mesh, 10" x7.5" x 7", 2012
Lorica #5, wool and metal mesh, 3.75" x 2" x 3.25", 2011. Private collection.
Lorica #5, detail, wool and metal mesh, 3.75" x 2" x 3.25", 2011. Private collection.
Lorica #4, wool and metal mesh, 4.5" x 11" x 5.5", 2012
Lorica #4, detail, wool and metal mesh, 4.5" x 11" x 5.5", 2012
Lorica #3, wool and metal mesh, 6" x 5.5" x 5.5", 2012
Lorica #3, detail, wool and metal mesh, 6" x 5.5" x 5.5", 2012
Lorica #2, wool and metal mesh, 9" x 8" x 10", 2011
Lorica #2, detail, wool and metal mesh, 9" x 8" x 10", 2011
Loricae refers to chain mail, which was historically used for both its function and communication capabilities— for physical protection, but also to declare wealth, kinship, rank, and status. These fiber-and-metal creatures are meant to read as both defensive and decorative, and are another foray into combining materials the complement and yet undermine the soft quality of wool. The fleshy underbellies appear vulnerable yet robust. The aluminum metal mesh used as armor or scales for these creatures comes from antique evening bags- a form of social armor in themselves.
Selected sculptures are available to purchase through my online sculpture shop.