Wings of Desire (1996-98) - Sketches
 [H x W. approx. 1.5m]
  

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[negative print]

1. This the second version that went on tour around the UK, courtesy of Cartwright Hall, Bradford, and Craftspace Touring. Only one pair of wings shown here, and the contraption that hangs at the base of the helix, to stop the threads from entangling, is also missing. The helix is made up of wood, plastic, opalescent glass, and silver-plated beads. The transparent acetate squares rest on small white and dark irridescent beads.

2. Again only a pair of wings. This is the new version. The frame, and arms are still of steel, with copper, brass, steel and aluminium fittings. The threads are of transparent nylon. Careful fitting, thread, glue and balance hold it together. No solder. There are 6 wings. Originally there were to be 16, but sanity stopped me.

3. I've taken a few liberties with the drawing, but you can get an idea of the full view at the moment. The weights are string wrapped card containers filled with chopped lead. I cast and carved from plaster numerous forms for the weights. Alas! in the end shock absorbers were needed, I used cardboard & string. The plaster versions wouldn't have survived more than a couple of shows.