Manx National Heritage announces the launch of ‘Crucible’, the latest exhibition at the House of Manannan, officially opened on Saturday 21 October.
The exhibition features steel sculptures and ink drawings by Manx sculptor and member of the Royal Society of Sculptors Robert Jones.
Crucible is a melting pot of influences and ideas in a rapidly overheating world and Jones describes the exhibition as “a warning cry to value our materials, our energy and our environment and to transform our way of life to have any hope for a sustainable future.”
Through his work, Jones expresses his disappointment with a dominant culture of waste, exploitation and disconnection from nature. He sees his work as a personal rebellion, wrought from the challenging times we are living in.
Jones’ sculptures show how forms can be created from the merging of discarded materials, showcased on plinths made from upcycled oil drums reminding us of the climate crisis that is being driven by the continued extraction and burning of fossil fuels. His drawings show the thoughts and inspiration behind the balance and form that Jones creates in his sculptures and give an insight into the creative process behind the three-dimensional work.
Growing up in the Isle of Man, Robert Jones is inspired by prominent Manx sculptors, including his mentor Michael Sandle RA and the work of Bryan Kneale RA.
He trained in stone sculpture and a wide range of metalwork techniques, currently specialising in steel sculpture. He has exhibited in the UK and Isle of Man, with his work is represented in both the Isle of Man Arts Council collection and the Manx National Heritage collections.
His latest exhibition, ‘Crucible, Sculptures and Drawings of Robert Jones MRSS’ will remain on display until 14 January 2024.
ENDS
Image caption: Robert Jones MRSS (left) pictured with mentor, artist Michael Sandle RA
Media contact:
Lynsey Clague BA (Hons) MCIPR
Communications Manager – Manx National Heritage
T: 01624 648032
Manx National Heritage, Eiraght Ashoonagh Vannin
Manx Museum, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 3LY
Isle of Man Registered Charity No 603
