For nearly four years, Richard has explored texture and form through stone carving. Recently, he has gravitated towards softer stones like Cotswold, soapstone and alabaster, which offer greater flexibility and pliability. Having tackled more ambitious stones like onyx, where the reward lies in colour rather than form, sculpture is currently the natural evolution for his artistic journey. Having painted abstract acrylic canvases for many years, Richard found a fresh creative outlet in stone, and with its broad medium, it offers him the exploration and experimentation that sits at the heart of his passion.

In The Nest, Richard was inspired by the contrasting browns and greys of the alabaster, which evoked the weathered bark of an ageing tree. This organic texture led him to depict a family of birds gathered around their nest, with a parent tenderly feeding its young. The compact, carefully proportioned nest reflects the intimacy and shelter of a bird family.

Rendered in a relief carving style, the piece contrasts chiselled white linework against a highly polished mineral background. This distinctive technique has its roots in South American and Mexican folk art.

The original image that inspired the carving was found in a book of ancient sculptures. The artist and original source are unknown.