matthew simmonds carves miniature architectural sculptures from solid stone + marble

british artist matthew simmonds carves intricate miniature models of architectural spaces into parts of unfinished stone and marble. the solid mass into which the sculptures are carved unveils internal atmospheres where the viewpoint and light contribute different sensations to the viewer. geometric patterns and embossed textures are imprinted on the doric columns, domes, and archways that ornate his work.all images © matthew simmonds 

colonnade V, faxe limestone 2019, height 20cm

matthew simmonds’s sculptures draw influence from stone and particularly sacred architecture. his projects fuse motifs of positive and negative form, and the alternation between light and darkness, exploring the connection between nature and human effort.colonnade V, faxe limestone 2019, height 20cm

in 1991 the british artist studied architectural stone carving and then he started his career as a stonemason. simmonds worked on the architectural restoration of several major english national monuments, including on westminster abbey, ely and salisbury cathedral. later, he won the first prize at the second international sculpture symposium in verona, while in 1999, he succeeded his first recognition as a sculptor.colonnade V, faxe limestone 2019, height 20cm

fragment VIII, limestone 2018, height 30cm

arena, faxe limestone 2018, 110 x 120 x height 56cm (excluding base)

exedra, carrara marble 2018, height 41cm

essay in baroque space II, carrara marble 2018, height 45cm, commissioned for the luxury cruise ship nieuw statendam

the undiscovered country, statuary marble 2018, height 31cm

essay in perpendicular, limestone 2018, height 42cm

essay in perpendicular, limestone 2018, height 42cm

romanesque stone II, limestone 2018, height 80cm  

project info:

artist: matthew simmonds