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The
driving force throughout Michael Birch's life was his need to express
his creative talents. He was a Painter, Potter and Writer, but he
is most renowned for his superbly carved sculptures. |
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He created an amazing array of miniature sculptures originally inspired
by the myths and legends traditionally found in Japanese netsuke.
However, as a contemporary artist Michael Birch developed his own
distinctive style and produced seductive works of great imaginative
strength and power. |
| Precisely
carved and beautifully finished in natural materials he collected
from around the world, he was often influenced by the natural patterns
he found in materials as diverse as hippo tooth, mammoth tusk, stag
antler, exotic woods or rare amber. |
| Michael
Birch’s great skill as a craftsman is displayed as his carvings
move from deceptively simple and elegant abstractions to highly detailed
representations. They make an evocative impression on the viewer,
whether they inspire a sense of mystery, beauty, sensuality or humour.Sought
after by major collectors and museums around the world, Michael's
carvings are represented in most major collections in the USA, Europe
and Japan. |
This
book gives an overall survey of a multi-talented creative artist,
taking an unusual approach to illuminate the motivation behind his
design and carving of netsuke. Extensive use is made of the artist's
comments and letters to collectors as well as quotations from fellow
artists, major collectors and connoisseurs.
Over 150 pieces have been specially photographed for a new book, The
Art & Life of Michael Birch, to show the intricate detail and
subtle beauty of Michael Birch's carving.
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