Embracing the Soul of Copper

As an artist myself, I've always been drawn to those who have a deep connection with their chosen medium. Nicky Huxham is one such artist whose passion for working with copper is truly palpable. Nicky's recent journey has led her to The Copper Works Newlyn, coinciding with her participation in the exhibition "Hiraeth" at Wild West Works alongside my own works. I sat down with Nicky to delve into her captivating world of copper artistry.

Nicky Huxham: Working with copper feels like an intimate dance with history and artistry. The material itself is a treasure—smooth, warm-coloured, and an absolute delight to paint on. I find myself drawn to old, weathered water tanks, seeing beyond their corroded surfaces to the potential they hold. With a pair of tin snips, I carefully cut and clean these tanks, revealing panels of copper marked by time, adorned with vibrant corrosion and mineral deposits from years of holding and heating water.

What captivates me most is the copper's story. Instead of concealing its age, I embrace it, letting its natural beauty take centre stage in my work. Some panels are so strikingly beautiful in their weathered state that I feel adding anything more would only detract from their inherent charm.

My process is a labor of love—piecing together scrap bits, shaping them into cohesive pieces of art. Each panel becomes a canvas that not only bears my artistic expression but also carries the history and character of the copper itself. The rhythmic tapping of thousands of brass tacks brings a therapeutic energy, infusing each piece with its unique presence.

Copper isn't just a medium for me; it's my sanctuary, my Hiraeth. And now, my journey has led me to Newlyn Copper Works—a place that has opened new doors for me. It's here that I'm delving deeper into the craft, expanding beyond painting into the realm of a coppersmith. This transition signifies a deeper commitment, a newfound dedication to mastering the artistry of copper and exploring its infinite possibilities.

Nicky's words resonate deeply with me as an artist. Her reverence for the material and grit to her craft are truly inspiring. I have no doubt that her time at The Copper Works Newlyn will not only enhance her skills but also bring a new depth to her already captivating work. Keep an eye out for Nicky's future pieces—they're sure to be nothing short of extraordinary.

For all inquiries regarding Nicky's work, be sure to reach out to her via her Instagram page, @nicky_huxham.

And for a glimpse of some amazing Copper Creations have a look at thecopperworksnewlyn.com