The Hare in the Lane

Ama Menec’s natural history sculptures focus primarily on endangered British animals, and those that have made a comeback such as the Wild Boar, Ravens and Moose. Ama also focusses on lesser known or appreciated native British wildlife such as Great Diving Beetles, Adders and Cinnabar Moths, all of which are in need of the good PR brought with depictions in art. There is a story of personal interaction behind each sculpture. 

 

Ama is influenced by early 20th century stone carving, particularly Art Deco, the qualities of line and use of negative spaces. Her wall hanging sculptures are often inspired by wood cut and lino print composition combined with architectural stone carving techniques. She has strived for a similar look, by carving back leather hard clay using sharp steel tools, like a softer form of stone carving or engraving.

The Hare In The Lane zig zags down a Devon lane in November, framed by navel wort, ivy leaves and hearts tongue fern. Suitable for both homes and gardens, indoor and out door spaces and fully weatherproof.  

 

This sculpture is based on an encounter I had with a hare in a Devon lane, near my studio, as I was driving home very late at night. I hadn't seen a hare in decades, and had forgotten the zig-zag way of running they have. I drove very slowly so as to not spook the hare. Because of my slowness she would sit in the road and look over her shoulder at me until I got too close, then she would take off again. It took nearly a mile before she was able to escape under a field gate, but it left a big impression on me. Hares are magical, other-worldly creatures, and their movements are used in divination.

Stoeneware

25x5x3cm