Red Knot

Project Info

This hand-carved and steam-bent knot of sycamore is coated in a red ochre pigment, evoking the striking geology of the Isle of Skye.

The looping, interlocking form of Red Knot is inspired by craft practices such as weaving and net-making. Instead of creating a surface or volume from thread, here the delicate thread-like form is carefully unearthed from the volume of a solid piece of wood.

Through a skilful process of steam bending and hand carving, using small chisels and a wire survival saw, the character and behaviour of the wood is transformed, becoming increasingly flexible and motile, until the final dynamic shape is reached.  

The wall-mounted sculpture is coated with paint made from a red earth pigment, found near the maker’s home in Trotternish on Skye. This natural high-iron content material, which has been used by humans as a pigment for many thousands of years, creates a beautifully tactile and ancient colour that connects us to the earthy landscape.