As a figurative artist, everything Sophie Ryder creates, must end up in a form
that demands a strong emotive response. Sophie's working methods include an
extraordinary ability to utilise materials, that in other's hands often prove
awkward and unyielding. Although best known for using wire as a sculptural medium,
she doesn't restrict herself to the use of one particular material for its own
sake. Whatever material she uses, Sophie has always responded by looking closely
at traditional working methods and then asking how else it could be used; what
are its limitations; is it suitable to express her thoughts ? It is not enough
to say her idea can fit the material, rather the material must bend to her will.
She compulsively exploits it, forcing a way through until it forms a unique
structure that could only be hers. Whether working in wire, bronze, clay, plaster
or translating her ideas two dimensionally, Sophie's strong imagery is instantly
recognisable. She works through her ideas in a relentless pursuit of perfection.
People are often surprised that her hands, able to manipulate the most intractable
of materials, are still soft and supple. On closer inspection, one can see that
her finger prints have almost worn away from years of abuse.
Sophie's work is highly original and has been much imitated over the years. Her wire drawings are quite unique, defying the usual catagorisation of sculptural or pictorial; they are both of course, These huge tableaux are often at their best, viewed outside, against a skyline. Sophie refuses to verbalise her art. She does not explain or give it pretentious labels or titles. She is, in many ways, a maverick, content to pander to no one but herself. Art is not a job or a club in which to belong, for her it is simply something she can't stop doing. Sophie's life is her work; her work her obsession. She is a believer; a believer in visceral response; in the emotiveness and tangibility of her work which is always embodied in the aesthetic imperative. One feels a sense of affinity with her work which somehow draws you in. Her raison d'etre is a compulsion to present her view of life, sometimes mystical, sometimes poetic. For the viewer, her hope is one of contemplation, response and pleasure ~ Hubert Decosse
The next few pages are documented
with numerous images and explanatary notes about the processes and routines
that form Sophie Ryder's world. There is also information about current projects.
This site has been created in response to the many enquiries about Sophie Ryder
and hopefully will prove helpful for those using it as a study resource. Please
check back for exhibition information and regular updates. Feel free to leave
your comments for the artist.