Thorns have long been associated with protection. They create boundaries, keeping things at a distance while sheltering what lies beneath. But they can also become a metaphor for the barriers we build around ourselves — the ways we protect our vulnerability, sometimes without realising how far those defences can separate us from the world around us.

Copper Thorns grew from this idea: an exploration of protection, emotional distance and the complexity of human experience.

The branching forms rise through the composition, creating a dense network of delicate yet defensive shapes. Against the textured background, they suggest both growth and resistance — something reaching outwards while simultaneously keeping the world at arm’s length.

I wanted the surface to feel weathered and layered, as though it carries traces of time and experience. A rustic palette of umber, sienna and ochre is balanced with contrasting whites and greys, creating depth and movement within the composition.

The thorns are gilded twice, using both water and oil gilding techniques. These different approaches create a subtle, mirrored two-tone effect, allowing the metallic details to shift with the light. The painted surface is then distressed, before a final layer of brass gilding is applied.

The result is a richly textured artwork of moody, distressed copper and brass. The metallic branches stand out against the darker background, their delicate forms catching the light in unexpected ways.

As with all my work, Copper Thorns is created entirely by hand in my studio using the heritage craft of Verre-églomisé — painting and gilding onto the reverse of toughened glass. Once the artwork is complete, the glass is turned over to reveal the finished image through its surface.

The piece is mounted in a bespoke, slim black ash frame, giving the intricate composition a contemporary finish.

As the light changes throughout the day, the metallic leaf takes on different qualities. In the evening, it catches and reflects the available light, bringing a subtle luminosity to the copper and brass.

For me, this piece is about the complicated relationship between protection and connection: the boundaries we need, the defences we develop, and the moments when those same defences can keep us apart.

Each piece I create is original and unique, made entirely by hand in my studio. No two artworks are ever the same.

If you'd like to explore the ideas and personal inspiration behind this piece in more depth, you can read the accompanying journal entry.

Read the story behind Copper Thorns →

Artwork details

Size: 930 × 730 mm
Weight: Approximately 10 kg
Materials: Reverse-painted and gilded glass, with distressed copper and brass finishes
Glass: 6 mm toughened glass
Frame: Bespoke black ash hardwood frame
Hanging: Cord and D-rings

UK delivery: Secure shipping within the UK is included in the price.
Worldwide delivery: Please contact the studio for a delivery quote.