Georgia Bountros - leather sculptor
Myths and legends reinforce and remind readers of our perceptions of the world. Like many artists before her, Gerogia Bountros is both inspired by stories and makes 3D figurative work that evokes the memorable aspects of characters and plots.
The ‘complexity of our times’, so much a subject of exploration, is here rendered in an accessible way; through the evocations of stories.
She depicts stories from ancient Greek culture to explore, through her dynamic and fascinating leather clad figures, the symbolic roles played by gods, heroes and animals in mythical tales. Historically, the legends of ancient Greece have been great storytellers and her work continues these rich stories.
Stories remind us all of the characteristics of living, dying and phenomena that is difficult to explain directly. Stories convey more than descriptions, they have a resonating quality that encourages us to imagine personally what is understood universally.
She continues this universality of myths and legends, narrative and symbolism, how common themes exist in the mythology of more than one culture. Other traditions she continues is the artist’s role of depicting stories. Bountros brings what is understood and remembered back into the moment.
These common themes are portrayed with uncommon material. The figurative use of animals, iconic figures/symbols, and hands from ancient stories (so nearly like our own) to convey multi-layered narratives connect people with the implications of the story, so as the story becomes vivid in the moment.
Working with anthropomorphic figures at realistic scales demonstrating the significance of continuity and the relevance of archaic artefacts, making our connections with these artefacts continuous.
The craftsmanship has been defined by the rigour of bookbinding. This transition, from 2D to 3D, was effective as she became familiar with both classic stories and the cognitive process of transferring written text into visual aid.
The work has a particular and special presence, as the leather marquetry beautifully folds in and around figures, whereas the expectation of marquetry is on flat surfaces. Her work is directed at welcoming the viewer to reflect, not to jolt.
It is part of human nature to be captured by stories. Georgia Bountros provides traditional techniques and craftsmanship to enchant the viewer and continue this act of reminding, not inventing. Using stories to explain the characteristics and complexity of living and dying, one is reminded of the very phenomenon that has captivated audiences for centuries.
