Laura Ford
Reclining Seal, sculptural installation (Chaise longue and seal), 2025
Jesmonite, nylon wadding velvet, acrylic paint, seaweed ink, glazed ceramic eyes
270 cm (L) x 63cm(D)x 123 cm (W)
'I felt it was important for me to take part in this fundraising exhibition because I spent most of my childhood living by the sea and it is still a...
"I felt it was important for me to take part in this fundraising exhibition because I spent most of my childhood living by the sea and it is still a big part of my life. Over the years I have witnessed the depletion of the kelp forests and in turn the sea life so I love the idea of the regenerative farming of seaweed to make new and innovative products which in turn could help restore nature and go some way to repairing the devastating affect we humans have had on the eco system.
I am really enjoying working with the Ocean Ink, it is completely non-toxic so you can get stuck in and experiment without worrying about any fumes or having to wear gloves. I love the idea that it is fully biodegradable so any failed experiments, unlike with other inks that are solvent based, can go straight into the recycling without worrying. Somehow it gives you a bit more freedom. The work I am making for the exhibition will be exploring feelings of being out of your element, a seal in a sitting room, a small person snorkelling out of their depth. Every summer I go out on the sea with my husband in a little rowing boat and sometimes we will meet a seal. They come quite close and seem totally in charge, provoking a feeling of awe in me and, at the same time, a sense of vulnerability." - Laura Ford
I am really enjoying working with the Ocean Ink, it is completely non-toxic so you can get stuck in and experiment without worrying about any fumes or having to wear gloves. I love the idea that it is fully biodegradable so any failed experiments, unlike with other inks that are solvent based, can go straight into the recycling without worrying. Somehow it gives you a bit more freedom. The work I am making for the exhibition will be exploring feelings of being out of your element, a seal in a sitting room, a small person snorkelling out of their depth. Every summer I go out on the sea with my husband in a little rowing boat and sometimes we will meet a seal. They come quite close and seem totally in charge, provoking a feeling of awe in me and, at the same time, a sense of vulnerability." - Laura Ford
Exhibitions
Art For Your Oceans: Sotheby's, London (2025), Hastings Contemporary (2025)