The Warp, The Weft & the Weave

I have created a series of life-size suspended torsos.
Although my work is always figurative. I often use symbolic icons in my work.
In these torsos, I make exclusive use of my symbolic iconography to make up the form of the torsos themselves.  
The torsos have symbolic & metaphoric value as well as illustrate the interaction between sculptor and model.
The moulding process is an art in itself with multi-steps required and I frequently work in the ‘negative spaces’ to achieve the final result.

The individual threads, chameleons, paper dolls, tree frogs and jig-saw pieces, although fragile and vulnerable as individual pieces, possess a calming strength in the exoskeleton that they create when linked together – so it is with the individual.
The torsos hint at transformation, overcoming fears, adaptation, and transcending from one state (whether physical or metaphysical) to another.
In all of the works, fragility, risk & vulnerability via for an equilibrium with strength & tenacity.
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As with all my works, the title is taken from poetry I have written and etched into the piece itself.
This is the first torso in the series of 5:

The Warp, The Weft and the Weave - a work entirely made up of vertical and horizontal threads or latticework.
This was the first in the series and is what prompted me to create these pieces in this manner.
The metaphor of warp and weft is used to describe the underlying structure of the individual. It refers to an integral part of who we are. Like armor, we put up and tear down walls as we buffer the world, are hurt, trust, forgive, retreat, and yet still manage to rise above and strengthen our resolve as individuals.
The vertical warp threads provide strength, while the horizontal weft threads add colour, beauty, and design. I think that holds true with individuals not just fabric!
It combines the strength and vulnerability of the individual. The warp threads represent the known threads, while the weft threads represent the discovered threads – always leaving a path to discover and transcend from one situation to another.
I do like that the warp and weft of the world can be used to describe the basic dichotomy of the world, such as up/down, in/out, black/white, Sun/Moon, male/female or yin/yang. 

In traditional bronze patina:

In 'Dakota Marble' patina

In Spannish Moss patina: