Wendy Taylor
Wendy Taylor was born in Stamford, Lincolnshire, in 1945, although she is in fact a sixth-generation East Ender: an aristocrat of the working class ( Edward Lucie-Smith in his monograph Wendy Taylor, Art Books International 1992). She studied at St Martin's School of Art, London (1961-67).
Best known for her public commissions, Taylor has two distinct strands to her work: large abstract pieces that appear to be in precarious balance, and drawings and sculptures of animals, anatomically correct and realised in minute detail. In an approach that is both creative and pragmatic, Taylor manages to maintain an aura of mystery within her sculptures. In compositions that engage notions of balance, movement and chance, expressed in a range of forms and materials, from brick to bronze, Taylor's application is always progressing and technical perfection is guaranteed.
Although they may not be aware of the fact, for thousands of people, Wendy Taylor's work is part of their everyday lives. Her sculptures can be seen in public places throughout Britain, with many in London and the Home Counties. Taylor's commitment to visual aspects of our environment through her membership of the Royal Fine Art Commission and her work on many advisory panels, as well as her practice in this sphere, has contributed greatly to the development of sculpture for public places in this country. Wendy Taylor has exhibited her work widely, and is represented in public and private collections here and abroad. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including being given a CBE in 1988. Wendy Taylor lives in Bow in the East End of London and works at her studio in the Hermitage Pump House near St Katherine's Dock.
