THE Gem UnicornS COLLECTION
Celebrating Identity and Craftsmanship
The unicorn, a symbol of transformation and healing, has long captivated me. In this series of five sculptures, created between 2021 and 2023, I explored the power of imaginative narratives, craftsmanship and diversity, drawing on my background in comics. Each sculpture is made from plaster of Paris, hand-painted, adorned with artificial gems, and finished with a protective layer of resin, resulting in a polished, elegant form. I devoted around 200 hours to bringing each of these mythical figures to life.
Gem Unicorn
The Gem Unicorn is the first sculpture in this series. It made its debut at an informal, impromptu happening during the Frieze London outdoor sculpture exhibition in Regent’s Park in 2023. Placed among other works in a way that led the public to believe it was part of the original program, this unplanned reaction sparked conversations about association and how we perceive objects based on their surroundings.
Drag Unicorn
The Drag Unicorn symbolizes the power of personal truth and the courage to express oneself. Its long, dramatic eyelashes echo the bold makeup and theatricality seen in drag performances, celebrating transformation and individuality.
Yin-Yang Unicorn
Yin-Yang Unicorn's black-and-white design draws directly from my roots as a comics artist, where I originally worked exclusively in these two colours. I added a plinth with gold gems to create a subtle contrast, giving the sculpture a grounded yet luminous presence. Unlike the other, more richly adorned unicorns, this piece is minimalistic, with a smooth, polished finish.
Red Riding Hood Unicorn
The Red Riding Hood Unicorn draws inspiration from fairy tales. I am continually inspired by legends and myths, seeing them as symbolic guides through change, challenge, and growth.
Bubble Unicorn
The Bubble Unicorn was completed during the tragic vandalism of the Sycamore Gap Tree in Northumberland in 2023 - the symbol of resilience. Its surface is thoroughly covered with gems, resembling the protective armor of a knight, symbolizing strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The vibrant design not only protects the unicorn but reflects the fragile nature of true beauty, which is often vulnerable. This intricate, gem-studded surface also invites touch, creating a pleasant sensory experience.
Frieze london, 2023
great expectations project
Great Expectations began as a spontaneous, impromptu project at the Frieze Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition in London in 2023. While visiting the show, I noticed an empty red plinth and, on a whim, placed my Gem Unicorn on it. People immediately engaged with it, assuming it was part of the official selection.
Watching them interact with the unicorn reminded me how art can connect with people in the simplest of ways. The moment sparked reflections on context and scale, showing me that my work can evoke joy and curiosity when given a chance — or a plinth — to shine.
This experience evolved into the idea for a proposed urban art installation featuring a large red plinth with a tiny unicorn atop. The piece plays with scale and perception, echoing those moments in life when we expect something grand but encounter something small by comparison. The project is planned for future submission to competitions and public art open calls.
