Jess Szigy-gyula

I am a central Victorian Sculptor who lives and works overlooking the iconic Hanging Rock. I have come full circle and, after 20 years away, have settled on the property where I grew up. I love the ebb and flow of the seasons and feel deeply settled in familiar soil.

I work predominantly in Bronze, often inspired by an idea, gesture, amusing social interaction or the power of a static abstract form in nature. I am fascinated by making repetitions (in number, size or differing materials) of sculptural forms and then observing how these interact together and with the space around them. I also like seeing how very slight changes in posture (such as those displayed in my little Magpie Family sculptures) can evoke such different responses in the viewer.

I initially trained as a botanist and travelled throughout Australia, working, bushwalking and generally being extremely excited to discover new places and explore Australia’s natural diversity. The discipline of being a botanist has trained me to be patient and develop a keen eye for detail.

To me, being an artist is all about exploration in a curious, disciplined manner.  My quiet, creative process allows me to reflect and contrasts with the busyness of children, farm & work.