Studio & Practice
The inspiration behind Oughtibridge’s sculptures comes from many sources, though the greatest influence is the dramatic Yorkshire landscape of Northern England, where his studio is based. The surrounding landscape, characterised by river valleys, hills, fells, mountains, upland plateaus and rugged edges, provides a constant source of inspiration.
When mist and fog descend, as they so often do, the contours of the land dissolve into a muted monochrome palette where texture, silhouette and form become heightened. These natural qualities of curve, texture and movement are echoed throughout each of Oughtibridge’s sculptures.
Process
Oughtibridge’s work has always possessed a sense of ambiguity and monumentality. He strives to create bold and dramatic sculptures that leave the viewer questioning both their materiality and method of construction. Sharp lines and sweeping curved planes have remained defining characteristics throughout his practice.
CV / Career
Education
Oughtibridge first discovered clay after leaving school while studying an Art Foundation course at Dewsbury Art College. During a two-week placement in the ceramics department with renowned Raku ceramicist David Roberts, he was immediately drawn to the material.
After graduating from Loughborough University and later the Royal College of Art in 2001, he established a studio in London before returning to his native Yorkshire in 2005.
Growing up close to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park was both a gift and an education from an early age. The influence of Barbara Hepworth remains deeply embedded within his visual language, particularly in his sensitivity to texture, proportion, line and form.
Collections
Over many years, Oughtibridge has developed a distinctive sculptural language, with work that sits between contemporary sculpture, architecture and design. His practice continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on bronze and larger-scale monolithic forms.
Oughtibridge’s work is held in the permanent collection of The Hepworth Wakefield, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge. His sculpture is shown at Galerie du Don in France, Velarde in Devon, Marchmont House in the Scottish Borders, and the Ceramics Centre in London.
Much of Oughtibridge’s work is made on commission. Working internationally with private clients, designers and architects, he creates bold, site-specific pieces scaled and resolved for the space they’re destined for.