Steve Dilworth

Description

Towering over the viewer, Claw creates an immediate sense of awe. Its dark colour and substantial curves imply power, whilst the pointed ends of this black crescent have a cruel edge to them. Claw acts as a potent totem, implying violence and animalism whilst standing calm as a solid dictator.

The black, intractable surface of Claw creates an aura of mystery around this work. The glossy texture and smooth lines simultaneously add an intense beauty. Indeed, it is safe to say that Claw is a sculpture of extremes. It is not a simple replica of an animal claw but rather the essence of claw incarnate; the spirit of all clawed creatures and the tasks that claws perform.

Overall, an effect of mysticism is formed in this sculpture. One is never sure where one stands with it; is it poised to strike us, to tear us to shreds? Or do we imagine threat purely because it has the potential to harm? Should we dance around it? Pray to it? Or regard its dangerous beauty from afar?

This gigantic talon reminds us all of the threat and power of the natural world whilst, at the same time, humbling us with its beauty. Like the shadow of the moon, its curved facets invoke notions of ancient peoples and pagan religions, if not the mythical rituals and barbaric blood rituals passed down as rumour to the present day. This abstracted and multi-faceted sculpture is tactile and textural yet also manages to reach deep into our emotional core.