Philip Hearsey

Sculptor Philip Hearsey draws on his background in architecture, interior design, and furniture design to create fluid abstract sculptures. His intuitively crafted pieces bring beauty and intrigue to any space, featuring a striking patina that feels contemporary and sophisticated. Philip specialises in sand casting solid bronze, a lengthy process that avoids the complexities of lost wax casting. While this method imposes certain limitations, it also enriches his work. For example, pinholes from bronze porosity are a natural feature of sand casting, not a flaw. In sand casting, a robust pattern is placed in tightly packed sand, leaving an impression that is filled with molten bronze. This method allows for solid, heavy pieces that can be cut, shaped, welded, and drilled. Philip achieves colour through various methods, primarily by oxidizing the bronze, mimicking natural chemical reactions with mild heat and stronger solutions for quicker results. Patination can be enhanced with transparent colour washes, often acrylic, which preserve the unique variations while adding vibrancy. He also uses painting techniques on parts of sculptures, allowing for a broader colour palette alongside patination. Polishing bronze offers depth and reflection but requires maintenance to prevent tarnishing. Natural bronze is usually brushed and lacquered for protection, which provides long-lasting defence against uneven tarnishing. During his decade-spanning career, Philip’s highly sought after sculptures are held in collections worldwide and have been exhibited globally.