This Carbon Chemistry series is the origin of Briony’s molecular work, where she uses human figures to construct molecules, using the figures’ arms and legs to connect them according to the chemical bonds formed between different atoms. Thus the carbon atom, that can form four bonds, is a male figure with four outstretched limbs enabling them to connect to four other atoms or figures.
A dream of Society as flawless as diamond
This work was inspired by James Lovelock’s theory of Gaia and draws on the concept that all life is interconnected. The structure is inspired by carbon chemistry. Each figure is connected via is arms and legs to four other figures, thus forming a tetrahedral lattice such as the one formed in Diamond by the connection of each carbon atom to four others.
Bronze, 2008
56 x 48 x 32 cm
Edition of 8, Edition still available
A hope for humanity as connected a Diamond
This is the second version of this idea, where I have extended the tetrahedral lattice of the carbon chemistry further to produce a larger piece. It has also drawn out more interesting observations on the geometry of the lattice, from some angles the rhythmic pattern of the figures gives the impression of waves traveling through the work. It has a different patina to the first work, which each man coloured different shades of blue. (This work was formerly known as “A dream of Society as flawless as diamond II”)
Bronze, 2009
55 x 30 x 40 cm
Edition of 8, Edition still available
Lovelock’s Shoulders
Lovelock’s Shoulders is part of a series of works in which a repeated male figure represents a carbon atom in molecular structures. The title refers to both James Lovelock, the progenitor of the theory of gaia which sees all life as interconnected and Newton’s quote “If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants”.
Bronze, 2010
Height 20cm
Edition of 25, Edition still available
Carbon Pair
Carbon Pair is part of a series of works in which a repeated male figure represents a carbon atom in molecular structures. It embodies ideas of cooperation, harmony and balance.
Pewter, 2009
17 x 10 x 8 cm
Edition of 50, Edition still available
