JASON DE CAIRES TAYLOR

 
Two views of "Inverted Solitude" by Jason Taylor, 2008

"Inverted Solitude" is a lone figurative sculpture by Jason de Caires Taylor that was installed in August 2008 beneath a floating platform in The National Diving and Activities Centre, Chepstow, UK. The site, originally a stone quarry, is the deepest inland body of water in the UK, reaching depths of over 80m. The pontoon where the sculpture is permanently fixed is currently used for national free diving competitions and training.


Mold-making in the studio on human subject

This sculpture aims to explore reflection, space, isolation and extended being. When viewed from below, it reflects a mirror image onto the surface of the water, suggesting that a figure is standing on the platform staring down into the deep.

Materials: cement, fibre-glass, steel plate. 2500mm x 700mm; depth: 2.5m, 2008.


"Vicissitudes" by Jason Taylor, 2006 
part of Grenada's underwater sculpture park

"Vicissitudes" depicts a circle of figures, all linked through holding hands. These are life-size casts taken from a group of children of diverse ethnic background. Circular in structure and located five meters below the surface, the work both withstands strong currents and replicates one of the primary geometric shapes, evoking ideas of unity and continuum.

In May 2006, Jason completed the installation of the world’s first underwater sculpture park in Grenada, West Indies. He has gained international recognition for this unique work that highlights ecological processes whilst exploring the intricate relationships between modern art and the environment. By using sculptures to create artificial reefs, the artist’s interventions promote hope and recovery, and underline our need to understand and protect the natural world. Jason is a fully qualified diving instructor and underwater naturalist with over 14-years of diving experience in a variety of countries.


"The Lost Correspondent" by Jason Taylor, 2006
part of Grenada's underwater sculpture park


Drawing on the tradition of figurative imagery, the aim of Jason de Caires Taylor’s work is to address a wide-ranging audience crucial for highlighting environmental issues beyond the confines of the art world.  However, fundamental to understanding his work is that it embodies the hope and optimism of a regenerative, transformative Nature.


Jason's website:
http://www.underwatersculpture.com