Q&A with artist Hamish Mackie

Based at his home and studio in Hook Norton, Oxfordshire, artist Hamish Mackie has been at the forefront of animal sculpture for many years. His professional career as a sculptor began in 1996 during his first visit to Africa. We were lucky enough to get a moment of his time to ask a few questions about his work:

How important is it to you to be able to go to an animal’s natural environment?
It’s almost impossible to get a proper understanding of the subject without. It’s also much more inspirational. Feeling an elephants rumble at close quarters for the first time has to be a highlight

What materials do you use? And do you have a preference?
I Sculpt most of my originals out of clay or plasticine which are then cast into bronze. I love the fact I can stick my fingerprints into a soft clay and this detail can be captured by Lockbund Foundry

Can you tell us about your process? Are there any parts that you love or any parts that you dislike?
I’m always interested in de-pigeonholing myself so open to all ideas! I have recently been given some ammolite by the Korite mine in Canada to make something out of

How do you go about capturing the essence of your subject?
Before starting any sculpture I like to get the subject in my head so I have a good understanding of why it’s like it is. Travel is an integral part of this research, I’ve recently been to Sweden to observe Moose

How do you know when a sculpture is complete?
When I‘m brave enough to leave it alone. There’s a thin line between loose mark-making and a hole. Every piece of the surface should have a purpose

What keeps you inspired to keep making sculptures?
I’m incredibly lucky I have made a living out of a passion

If you would like to view a sample of the artist Hamish Mackie’s sculptures we are happy to have the following pieces on show as part of our art exhibition near Chester: Turtles, Longhorn Bull Head and Vessell. This artwork is also available to purchase directly through our resident creator Grant Ford Ltd. Contact our fine art advisor directly via luke@grantfordltd.com or 07939870337 if you require additional information.