Motoring art
The British sculptor whose abstract pieces draw inspiration from across the automotive spectrum
The drama of speed and beautiful streamlined forms have inspired artists from the dawn of the motoring age. Jonny Ambrose follows that tradition through his elegant, beautifully made sculptures, which combine a wide range of materials with some diverse influences. Be it the sublime curves of Bugatti coachwork or the racing line through Eau Rouge, his finished works celebrate automotive artistry with graceful abstraction.
“Recently I’ve been focusing on my love of technical drawing, but a new piece can start from a broad collection of things,” says Ambrose. “From curves, blueprints and maps I begin a process of deciphering many influences. I think people connect with my work because it’s not obviously recognisable as an automotive subject. I love a little intrigue and the varied response from viewers is fascinating.”
The pieces are created from a wide selection of materials, with wood being a major element. “I use a lot of green timber because steam-bending is a often a key process,” he explains. “Oak, ash and walnut have all featured, complemented by various metals including aluminium and steel. Contrast is a key feature and occasionally I’ll incorporate carbonfibre sheets and rods, but it’s a tricky substance to work with. The juxtaposition of grain, tone and weave, from both traditional and modern materials, inspires me.”
Ambrose enjoyed working with tools from an early age, an interest that was developed by his grandfather: “He was a true traditional craftsman, and days spent in his sheds were always fun. At school, I always liked making things.”
A passion for sculpture led to a degree in fine art, and following a successful career in the gaming industry he returned to his first love in 2016: “I had a yearning to make tactile works again.”
Since he came back to sculpture, Ambrose’s pieces have attracted wide international interest, and in 2017 he was invited to design and produce the trophies for The Quail concours in California. His work has also been displayed in the now-closed Donington museum and The Bugatti Trust, as well as at Goodwood and Silverstone. This year Rétromobile, Stuttgart and Bicester Heritage events will all display his creations.
And he’s a true enthusiast. Since childhood, classic cars have been a parallel interest to Ambrose’s art: “I’ve always loved the more quirky designs and as a youngster my dream car was the Lotus Europa. It took me 10 years to find a good JPS example, which I’ve restored. It keeps company with a ratty Porsche 914 and a Lamborghini Espada. As with my work, the lesser-known heroes attract me.” MW