Alan Somerville, Sculptor: “The Bella Figura”
When you cross the Anzac Bridge in Sydney from the Southern end you are aware of two, above life size, bronze figures of soldiers. One, an Australian, the other, a New Zealander. They stand valiant, in all weathers, a moving tribute to manhood and heroism. Alan Somerville who sculpted these works recently held an exhibition of his latest work at the Walter Burley Griffin designed Willoughby Incinerator Art Space, itself a work of sculpture.
This exhibition by a master of anatomy and fluidity in form was all action. Nothing here is at rest. The charging bull, the rapturous dancers, Horses are the very essence of horse. Lovers melt in each other’s arms. The works in the round are framed by a lively collection of animated drawings.
Here is a master sculptor who is part of that golden thread of figurative sculpture that includes Rodin, Degas and our own George Lambert. I have long admired the work of an inherently modest man who works incredibly hard to create a seemingly effortless result. It was my privilege to open this exhibition and share the occasion with his many admirers on Saturday the 3rd of August 2013.
See Alan’s work on his website – www.alansomerville.com
Paul Delprat