CHARACTER CAPTURED
British sculptor Tobias Martin beautifully captures in bronze the fluid grace, movement and character of the animals he so deeply admires
Exquisitely observed and rich with almost imperceptible subtleties, every sculpture by Tobias Martin demonstrates his astonishing ability, elevating his art to that of a true master. He understands and is supremely able to express the power, beauty and character of the animals he portrays.
Though many can capture something of the strength, grace and agility of our fellow creatures, it takes a true artist to convey the sense of inner being that we share with them. Martin’s work never patronises or sentimentalises but reveals – with respect and sensitivity – a deep knowledge of, and wonder at, the animal kingdom in all its splendid variety.
Martin’s incredibly lifelike sculptures of animals are very much part of this vital strand of human activity, reminding us of the beauty, wonder and variety of the creatures with whom we share this precious planet. It is the particular characteristic of sculpture to communicate the weight, heft and texture of the physical world and the balance and dynamics of its living forms.
Martin has the rare ability to instil his chosen materials with the inner being that few artists are able to capture. His sculptures express the dignity and gravitas of existence, and as we encounter one of his works, for example, Jumping Jack, which depicts a hare mid-leap, we experience something of the frisson of an actual encounter with those very creatures.
Perfectly capturing the unique characteristics of each species, Martin has emerged as one of the leading animalier sculptors of the decade. Animals inspire his creations, executed in bronze and his reputation is rapidly increasing, with popularity across the world, from the UK
to Europe, Asia, Australia and the USA.
Born in 1972 in Wiltshire, close to Stonehenge, the influence of his idyllic rural upbringing and the forces of nature and magic that permeated his childhood surroundings is palpably evident in his exquisite bronze sculptures, which have something of the mystical about them.
Of his work, Stella Callaghan, director of Callaghans of Shrewsbury, says: “Tobias has forged his own unique style which is enhanced by his tender observation and abundant admiration of the animal and mammal world.”
His raw talent and natural flair were nurtured and honed at London’s famous Saint Martin’s School of Art (now known as Central Saint Martins). Fellow alumni include the celebrated sculptors Sir Antony Gormley and Sir Richard Long.
Masterfully manipulating the material with a delicacy and lightness of touch, Martin approaches every sculpture with precise observation and an acute interest in the minutiae of the subject matter. Despite being realised in heavy materials such as bronze, the resulting piece achieves a sense of movement and character that conveys the essential spirit of the animal.
Martin combines centuries-old techniques with modern technology and materials. He is inspired by the work of Anglo-Dutch sculptor and master woodcarver Grinling Gibbons (1648–1721)
– whose intricate work adorns Windsor Castle, St Paul’s Cathedral and Hampton Court Palace – and British sculptor Sir Alfred Gilbert RA (1854–1934), who was a favourite of the Royal Family and is most famous for the iconic Eros statue on the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain in London’s Piccadilly Circus.
Martin’s career has spanned many art forms – it is almost unknown for such a young artist to have his huge repertoire of skills. He is well-known for his work in the British film industry, working at Shepperton and Ealing Studios on major UK films, and has also sculpted professionally for artists and exclusive interiors and exhibited in numerous shows internationally, including in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Switzerland, Turkey, UAE and USA, as well as in the UK.
Daniel Callaghan, director of Callaghans of Shrewsbury, adds: “Each sculpture is a small worldwide limited edition, signed and numbered, with a distinct patina adding an extra element of finesse.
The result is a wonderful work of art to be appreciated and enjoyed.”
Visit callaghan-finepaintings.com to view the full collection of works by Tobias Martin. Contact the gallery to request a brochure: email art@callaghan-finepaintings.com or call 01743 343452 or 07810 714545 or
+1 615 870 7639. ■