Icarus

Steel

Year 2016

Artist - Chris Barrett / Henrich Zelinka

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Price

£3000

Story behind the artwork

Icarus is a collaborative sculpture born from a partnership between myself and Chris Barrett, a highly skilled sculptor and fellow blacksmith. We created this piece as a joint proposal for a prestigious exhibition at a Cambridge University faculty.

While our proposal was ultimately not selected for the exhibition, the process of creating Icarus became a vital part of our own artistic journey. The story of Icarus—the father and son escaping captivity on wings of wax and feathers—felt like the perfect metaphor for the very situation we were in.

The myth warns us not to fly too low, where the sea dampens the wings, but also not to fly too high, where the sun melts the wax. To me, this is a recipe for life and mental resilience. In my own experience, I have seen the "highs" of success and the "lows" of being at the bottom. What I have learned is that both are temporary.

When we weren't "lucky" enough to get into the Cambridge exhibition, it was a moment to practice exactly what this sculpture represents: balance. I try not to let success go to my head, and I don't let a "no" from a gallery take away my hope. Whether we are up or down, the state is fleeting. Staying in the middle—staying balanced—is how I find peace. There is always a reason to smile and keep creating, regardless of the wings melting or the sea rising.

The Experience: The sculpture is designed to be immersive. When you stand directly in front of the piece, the wings align behind your own shoulders, inviting you to reflect on your own path and the balance you keep between your own "ups and downs."

The stories behind my artwork, the opportunities in The Lighthouse, and the reflections of the Morning Muse are my ways of keeping the lamp lit for our creative community. These resources will always be free to access. If they have found you at the right time, consider fueling the forge to help keep the fire burning. Your support, in any amount, is deeply appreciated.

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