Simon Watkinson

Concepts My work has for some time now evolved directly from a consideration of the physical and social characteristics of the particular space or building in which the project is located. The outcomes remain quite distinct from one another in terms of scale, material and imagery and I endeavour to steer towards a 'modern' response even in historic settings. Exploring this means I move from one process and material to another. This is well illustrated in the contrast between the Fakenham scheme, which won plaudits from an initially sceptical English Heritage and the work for Newcastle city centre. The former involved 72 sq. metres of cast iron panels based on the printing history of the town, whilst the latter used LED lighting, 3D computer scanning and machining, acrylic and glass to 'recreate' the beheading of Earl Grey's statue by a lightning strike.Influences culture, architecture and urban environmentCareer path Following initial BA and MA in Fine Art in Newcastle I became a participant at the Rijksakademie in Amsterdam. This two-year residency saw the development of my work to encompass architectural locations/buildings. Upon returning to the UK I focused upon Public Realm commissions including work for Sunderland City Council (Electrolyte) and Commissions East (Fakenham). Recently I have completed a series of works for Newcastle City Centre illuminating two of its most notable landmarks.