Taking an everyday object and enlarging it to a point where it is no longer recognisable or functional is not an entirely new concept in the realms of sculpture making. In some of his work, however, Grenville Davey manages to achieve a wicked balance, and our perception is thrown into confusion as we seek to decide whether the object is found, manufactured, representational or invented.
Grenville Davey.
Grenville Davey was born in Launceston, Cornwall, in 1961. He studied at Exeter College of Art and Design and at Goldsmiths College, London (1981-85), where he gained a BA (Hons) in fine art.
Taking an everyday object and enlarging it to a point where it is no longer recognisable or functional is not an entirely new concept in the realms of sculpture making. In some of his work, however, Grenville Davey manages to achieve a wicked balance, and our perception is thrown into confusion as we seek to decide whether the object is found, manufactured, representational or invented. All his sculptures, whether in wood or metal, which may be painted or left in the original state, are superbly made. Quality of surface, line, detail and finish is essential in the resolution of such work.
Davey has developed and sustained his career by exhibiting regularly since graduation, both in Britain and abroad. In 1992 he was awarded the annual Turner Prize at the Tate Gallery, London.