Simon Keeley
Traditional techniques are demonstrated and taught, often in reference to stonemasonry techniques. Tool use, tool type and maintenance are instructed. Critiques are given and group contributions from the group, to this are encouraged. Your tutor continually moves through the group throughout each day. Questions are welcome at all stages and evening working is encouraged.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?A basic understanding of the different stages of stone carving, from ‘roughing out’ to ‘fine carving and finishing’. How to select the appropriate stone for each idea and how to mark up a block or boulder. Simon will gladly share his vast knowledge of carving and masonry, gained over the last 14 years. Prior to that his 3 years of Conservation and Restoration experience become relevant when looking closely at ornament and form. His website has many testemonials in support of his teaching practice, going beyond what is expected of a tutor.
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?Clear Demonstrations, continual monitoring of each student and assessment of students’ progress and needs.
What inspires your own work?Nature, The Human Figure, The Masters –Michaelangelo, Rodin and Canova.
Where can students see examples of your work?Westminster Abbey – restoration carvings, The Worshipful Company of Skinners – Heraldic Plaque, ‘Walkspace’ pubic artwork, Letter carving of various languages in brick and stone, punctuating a ‘health walk’ in East Oxford. ‘Soundwaves’ public artwork - Various languages carved in bench tops of Cumbrian slate in Shadwell, East London. Ongoing ‘public art commission’- low relief carving panels carved in Portland Limestone–‘Healing Plants’ for a historic façade on Harley street.
Where did you gain your training?
NVQ Level 2 and 3 in Stonemasonry –York College Historic Carving Diploma (Degree level) City and Guilds of London Art school. MA – Art in architecture – University of East London.
What teaching experience ahve you had?A good range of experience, privately, at the Art Academy and at West Dean College.
Is your work in any public or private collections?The heraldic plaque designed and carved to commission for The Worshipful of Skinners is permenantly installed in their private roof garden. Commission for The National Trust - 'restored' plaster head of Antonio Canova's 3 Graces (plaster version) has been restored to the body of the Graces group and will be on show permenantly to the public at Clandon House as part of their art collection -Spring 2012.
Do you belong to any professional groups or societies?Winner of - Gold Award -Craft & Design Magazine -Specialist Category -2011. The Surrey Guild of Craftsmen, official supplier to the National Trust.