Inside Ones Own Head

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A wonderfully expressive and rather thought-provoking sculpture by contemporary British artist Shirley Sharp, depicting a characterful face with its head tilted upwards, as though lost in a moment of deep contemplation.

With its prominent nose, exaggerated lips, deeply recessed eyes and wonderfully irregular features, Inside One’s Own Head has a fascinating expression that’s difficult to pin down. Is this character deep in thought, quietly content, or perhaps trying to make sense of something? There’s a lovely mixture of humour and vulnerability here, and the longer you look, the more you find yourself wondering what’s going on inside that head!

The sculpture has a beautifully rugged, tactile surface, with layers of muted greens, earthy browns, warm creams and soft pinks giving it an almost ancient, weathered appearance. The rough textures and visible marks are very much part of its appeal, adding a sense of history and character to the face.

Shirley’s sculptures explore human behaviour, emotions and the curious ways we connect with one another. Inspired by years of sketching people in everyday settings, she deliberately exaggerates features and leaves marks in her work to give her characters a sense of having lived a life. Her figures often balance humour with tenderness and vulnerability, inviting us to recognise a little of ourselves in them.

What we particularly love about Inside One’s Own Head is the way the upward tilt of the face gives it such a distinctive presence. There’s something rather endearing about this character, caught somewhere between quiet reflection and a moment of private amusement.

A wonderfully unusual and personality-filled sculpture that would make a lovely addition to a bookshelf, sideboard or favourite corner of the home. A piece that invites curiosity, conversation and perhaps a little self-reflection too.

Height: 23cm
Width: 16cm
Depth: 16cm

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